29 August 2013 - A senior UN official launched a South Sudan Recovery Fund (SSRF) project in the state capital Bentiu today, which will invest over 17 million dollars into the state in coming months.

UN Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative Toby Lanzer launched the project, which will initially target road construction.

Mr. Lanzer, who is also Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (DSRSG) in South Sudan, called for transparency and accountability in using the funds, adding that more funds would come if they were used well.

"We have up to 100 million South Sudanese pounds for the southern areas of Unity State," he said. "... We need to make sure that we use this money very carefully ... and that we are able to account for every penny in the hope the donors will provide us even more."

The SSRF, managed by UNDP, is a multi-donor fund aimed at stabilizing areas affected or prone to insecurity so that communities can establish ties, including trade relationships.

The project will kick off after Unity State Caretaker Governor Joseph Nguen Monytuel presents a master plan to the SSRF Steering Committee for approval. It is expected to be implemented over the next three years, prioritizing the road connecting Leer County to Panijiyar, Koch and Mayendit and to Lakes and Warrap states.

"Once the three states are connected, the movement of people will increase and this will contribute to building up the trust," said Bentiu resident Abraham Tut, who attended the event.

John Galuak, another participant, said the project would help communities live better lives, as they would have increased access to goods.

UNMISS supported UNDP in mobilizing participants during county consultations and will also provide support in monitoring project implementation.

Any other money raised by the fund will target construction of nine police stations in the area.

"The project is important because it will help to reduce insecurity in the area," said Daniel Wal, a representative of Koch County Commissioner. "Insecurity exists between the three states. The police stations that will be constructed will improve the security further."