UNMISS intensifies efforts to reduce tensions and prevent conflict in Tambura, Western Equatoria

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is intensifying efforts to help reduce tensions, prevent conflict, and support peaceful coexistence in Tambura, Western Equatoria, following several violent incidents which have caused thousands of people to flee their homes.On 25 October 2024, four civilians were killed and two others injured by unidentified gunmen in Tambura, and there have been several other concerning incidents, including the home of a female staff member at the County headquarters, close to the County Commissioner’s residence, being set on fire on 1 November 2024.These incidents come amid unconfirmed reports of the mobilization of armed groups which have increased tensions and fear among local communities.As a result, the number of displaced people seeking sanctuary to a site adjacent to the UNMISS temporary operating base in Tambura has almost tripled from around 3700 to more than 10,500.While the Government of South Sudan has primary responsibility for protecting civilians, UNMISS has increased its peacekeeping patrols in Tambura, during the day and at night. The mission previously reinforced its protective presence through the deployment of additional troops in Tambura and Yambio when conflict broke out in April 2024, and they remain in place today.UNMISS is engaging intensively with traditional and community leaders as well as key political and security actors at the local, state and national levels. UNMISS-operated Radio Miraya has also installed new transmission in Ezo and is extending coverage to Nagero, to increase participation in peace processes among all affected communities.“Communities in Tambura, and across Western Equatoria State, continue to suffer immense harm from intercommunal conflict, which has led to the loss of many lives, widespread destruction of property, and the displacement of thousands of people,” said the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, Nicholas Haysom.“We urge all stakeholders, regardless of their affiliations, to work together to reduce tensions, find peaceful solutions to challenges, and work at the grassroots level to support peaceful coexistence, so that people can live free from fear and uncertainty, safely carry out livelihood activities, and pursue development opportunities that will benefit the entire region.”--Contact: UNMISS Spokesperson at unmiss-spokesperson@un.org