Radio Miraya

What role should the media play in a country emerging from conflict?In this edition of Nationwide, we explore how the media can support transitional justice by raising public awareness, amplifying calls for accountability, and promoting reconciliation.The discussion looks at the importance of independent, fact-based reporting in building trust, managing public expectations, and ensuring transparency through tools such as public hearings and published reports. It also draws lessons from The Gambia, where Truth Commission hearings were broadcast live to engage the public and strengthen the process.Sani Martin speaks with Baba Galleh Jallow, former Executive Secretary of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission in The Gambia, and inaugural Roger D. Fisher Fellow at Harvard Law School.

Can amnesty help a country heal, or does it risk denying justice to victims?In this edition of Nationwide, we unpack Article 31 of the CTRH Act, which allows amnesty for individuals who fully confess and provide evidence, while excluding serious crimes such as genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.The discussion looks at how decisions on amnesty are made, including factors like motive, context, and whether actions were carried out under orders, raising critical questions about accountability and command responsibility.Gabriel Shadar speaks with Yasmin Sooka, Executive Director of the International Truth and Justice Project, on what this means for justice, reconciliation, and lasting peace in South Sudan.

As South Sudan marks the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action on April 4th, this edition of Nationwide focuses on the ongoing threat of landmines and unexploded ordnance, and the urgent work to keep communities safe.Host Gabriel Shadar is joined by Taban Augustine, Executive Director of Safe Lives Initiative, and Borys Pokalyuk, Head of Protection Unit at United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS). Together, they unpack the scale of contamination across the country, the risks facing civilians, and the progress being made by the South Sudan government and its partners in clearance, risk education, and victim assistance.The discussion also highlights why sustained support for mine action remains critical for safe returns, development, and lasting peace in South Sudan.

A major crackdown on the illegal bush meat trade is unfolding on one of the roads leading to Juba.Speaking on Nationwide with Philip Pitia Kamilo Wani, Colonel Charles Laku said officers seized an army vehicle loaded with about 1.2 metric tons of illegal bush meat on the Bor-Juba road. He warned that traffickers are using various methods to transport wild meat to Juba, but said authorities are tightening enforcement and that those responsible will be dealt with under the law.

On Chai Talk, the discussion focused on the role of newly established universities in expanding access to higher education in South Sudan, especially in specialised fields such as petroleum, engineering, environment, health, and technology. The programme highlighted how these institutions could help bring education closer to students and build local skills needed for the country’s development.The discussion also noted that major challenges remain, including floods, poor roads, insecurity, and limited facilities, which could affect the smooth operation of the new universities and require strong support from the government and partners.

On Democracy in Action with Sani Martin, the Minister for Cabinet Affairs in Jonglei State, Justice Kuony Yien Nyuon, said the security situation in Jonglei is now calm after months of violence and displacement in the state's northern region. He said the unrest disrupted communities, services, and civic activities, while many displaced people are now beginning to return.

South Sudan has taken a significant step toward protecting its natural heritage with the endorsement of the Wildlife Conservation Act. The law is expected to strengthen conservation efforts, protect biodiversity, and support sustainable tourism.Hon. Wilson Lodiong Sebit, Chairperson of the Committee on Wildlife Conservation and Tourism at the RTNLA, and Atobgun Lodu Romber, former Chairperson of the same committee, speak to Philip Wabni of Radio Miraya on what this means for the country.

MBS's health segment focused on water, sanitation, and hygiene, highlighting the urgent need for safe, clean water in South Sudan, especially during the rainy season. The discussion explained that poor water and sanitation can lead to diseases such as cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, malaria, scabies and bilharzia, and stressed the importance of boiling, filtering or chlorinating water before drinking. Listeners also heard practical advice on safe storage, keeping water sources protected from animals and contamination, and the role of communities and water committees in managing water points. The key message was that safe water, proper sanitation and good hygiene save lives and require action from both households and community leaders.

On the Miraya Breakfast Show, guests Jane Ben, Abraham Dhel Akol from the National TB and Leprosy Control Programme, and Dr. Moses Mutebi Nganda from WHO discussed the upcoming official commemoration of World TB Day in South Sudan on 28 March 2026. They said tuberculosis remains a major public health challenge, with more than 29,000 cases notified in 2025, while stressing that TB is both preventable and curable. The guests highlighted the need for stronger awareness, early screening, and expanded services, especially in underserved areas where stigma, myths, and lack of access still affect response efforts. They also reminded communities that TB diagnosis and treatment are available free of charge and urged people with persistent coughs to seek care early, complete treatment, and follow prevention measures.

As tensions and armed confrontations continue in parts of South Sudan, this episode of The Roundtable asks whether religious leaders can help steer the country away from renewed conflict. Rt Rev James Makuei Chuol of the Presbyterian Church speaks on their recent call for peace and their efforts to encourage dialogue among political actors. The conversation also highlights the humanitarian toll of violence, with communities displaced and struggling to access food, health care, and security. Radio Miraya's Sani Martin is in conversation with: Rt. Rev. James Makuei Chuol, the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of South Sudan

Patients with kidney failure in South Sudan face growing challenges as high dialysis costs and a shortage of functioning machines limit access to life-saving treatment. Speaking on World Kidney Day, the Kidney Patients’ Association says many patients are dying because they cannot afford dialysis. Meanwhile, doctors at Al Cardinal Kidney Hospital warn that only half of the centre’s machines are working, forcing staff to operate extended hours to treat dozens of patients.

This episode of Nationwide examines why protecting victims and witnesses is essential to South Sudan’s transitional justice process. The discussion explores how the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing can ensure safety, confidentiality and dignity for people who come forward to share their experiences of conflict. It also highlights challenges such as fear of reprisals, stigma, and limited resources, while outlining practical measures including confidential testimonies, community-based protection systems and psychosocial support to help survivors participate safely. Radio Miraya's Sani Martin is in conversation with Christine Alai, Transitional Justice Advisor to the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan and Chairperson of the International Commission of Jurists-Kenya.

This episode of Know Your Rights examines conflict-related sexual violence in South Sudan and its impact on individuals and communities. The discussion explains what constitutes such violence, why it often occurs during conflict, and the lasting physical, psychological and social consequences for survivors. Guests also highlight the rights of survivors, the importance of reporting abuses, and the role of communities, institutions and support services in preventing violence and assisting survivors to access justice, protection and recovery. Radio Miraya's Juma Emmanuel is in conversation with Ms. Susan Awut Ahoy, Executive Director of the Achol Phillip Foundation, and Mr Anyinyasi Mark from the Human Appeal Development Organisation (HADO).

This episode of Health and Wellness explores obesity as a growing but often overlooked health challenge. Marking World Obesity Day, the programme discusses what obesity is, its causes, and its impact on health. A health expert explains how sedentary lifestyles, diet and modern habits increase risks. The discussion also highlights practical ways to prevent and manage obesity, including healthy eating, regular exercise, adequate sleep and greater public awareness to promote healthier living in communities. Radio Miraya's Magdolin Joseph is in conversation with Dr Patrick Sokiri.

Every year on March 8, the world marks International Women’s Day, a moment to celebrate the achievements of women and reflect on the challenges that remain in achieving gender equality.In South Sudan, women continue to play a vital role in peacebuilding, governance, economic development, and strengthening communities. Yet many still face barriers such as limited political representation, economic inequality, gender-based violence, and restricted access to education and opportunities.This Saturday, we will discuss the progress made, the challenges ahead, and what more must be done to ensure women fully participate in shaping the future of our country.Join Sani Martin and our guests who are actively working to advance women’s rights and gender equality in South Sudan.Guests: • Ms. Nyalang Dhal Dhal, Chairperson, South Sudan Women’s Union • Ms. Sarah Chat, UN Women • Hon. Ishag Elia Ibrahim, Deputy Chairperson, Specialized Committee on Gender, Child and social Welfare, Transitional National Legislative Assembly

The United Nations Victims’ Rights Advocate, Najla Nassif Palma, is visiting South Sudan to strengthen efforts to ensure that victims of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse receive justice, protection, and support.During her visit, Ms. Palma highlighted the UN Secretary-General’s “New Approach”, which places victims at the centre of prevention, response, and accountability.However, she says funding gaps continue to affect the support services available to survivors, even as efforts continue to mobilize additional resources.Ms. Palma spoke more about these issues in this interview with Hellen Toby.

South Sudan continues to strengthen its public health system, and one of the key pillars is the national laboratory network that supports disease detection, surveillance, and response.Today we are joined by Juma John Hassen Mogga, a laboratory technician with the World Health Organization, to talk about how the country’s laboratory network works, from community health facilities to the National Public Health Laboratory in Juba.We’ll also discuss recent progress in laboratory services, the country’s testing capacity for major diseases, and how laboratories help detect and respond to outbreaks across South Sudan.

Democracy in Action host Sani Martin came to listeners live from Jibam for a new episode on managing South Sudan’s natural resources, asking how oil and minerals can be governed with transparency, economic stability and long-term development. He was joined by Ghizam Moses, Executive Director of Humanity and Community Empowerment Organization and Secretary General of the South Sudan National Land Coalition, and Boboya James Edmond, CEO of the Institute of Social Research and Policy and Secretary General of the Civil Society Coalition of Natural Resources, to unpack findings from a joint study in Eastern Equatoria that highlights weak enforcement of the 2012 Mining Act, limited public awareness, revenue leakages through smuggling routes, environmental damage and poor community benefits, with the guests calling for stronger oversight, better border and airport monitoring, clearer licensing and community development agreements so local communities can benefit from mining while reducing illicit extraction and losses.