WARRAP - In Kuajok, anticipation filled the air as the UN Integrated Electoral Assistance Team, part of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), in collaboration with the BRIDGE* (Building Resources in Democracy, Governance, and Elections) programme, conducted a pivotal workshop aimed at enhancing the electoral processes in South Sudan ahead of elections scheduled for December.

This three-day event gathered some 25 participants, representing civil society organizations, government entities and media outlets.

The workshop's objectives were ambitious: promoting internationally accepted principles of democracy, enhancing the professional skills of electoral management bodies, exploring the application of legal frameworks, and discussing voter and civic education programmes.

“For many of us, this is the first comprehensive training on electoral issues we have received. Before, I only heard people talking about the election, but I didn’t know it’s a systematic process that needs everyone to be part of it from the beginning,” said Mark Mayar Machok, member of a civil society organization. “Now we are ready to start voter education at the grassroots level.”

Echoing his sentiments, Ayak Santino Mangong, a journalist in Kuajok, emphasized the power of radio in advocating for civic engagement before, during, and after the election.

“Giving media the space to disseminate information and sensitize our population is important, but our challenge is that large areas of our state still have no access to radio stations. I hope other stakeholders can fill this gap by visiting these communities in person,” she said.

Jacob Anai Maniel, Acting Chairperson of the State Elections Commission, also highlighted the issue of inclusivity.

“I think the most important aspect is to ensure the full participation of vulnerable population groups, such as women, persons with disabilities, and returnees. In Warrap, we have already drafted an action plan to make sure that everyone is included,” he commented.

Anastasie Nyirigira Mukangarambe, Head of the UNMISS Field Office in Kuajok, encouraged participants to make the most of their interactions.

"This is a platform for you to both learn and to teach. Your experiences, from different perspectives, are invaluable, and by sharing them, you contribute to the collective knowledge that will shape the country’s electoral process."

*The BRIDGE programme, a collaborative effort by a group of leading organizations that includes the United Nations Development Programme and the United Nations Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, plays a crucial role in supporting South Sudan's electoral journey. Through initiatives like this workshop, stakeholders are equipped with key skills and knowledge.