In a festive ceremony filled with cultural song and dance, the United Nations in South Sudan (UNMISS) officially handed over a police station in Wau town constructed under the mission’s Quick Impact Projects (QIPs).

UNMISS deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General (DSRSG) - Political, Moustapha Soumare, said the police station would be instrumental in restoring peace and stability in Wau adding that the mission supported peacebuilding efforts by the people of South Sudan.

“I do not see it [the police station] as only a building but a bridge between the police and the citizens to build confidence,” said Mr Soumare. 

“Having the police station in the area will restore law and order and we are hopeful that it will contribute to the voluntary return of displaced persons to their homes,” said Winnie Babihuga, the Head of UNMISS Wau Field Office.

The building which was completed in three months was welcomed by the police and the residents of Wau because before, police would operate under a tree, with the nearest police station 7km away.