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.

Live from Yambio on Radio Miraya with Taban G Koma, hosts Moyo Jacob Felix and Viola Elias led a special Community Conversations discussion marking International Women’s Day under the theme Rights, Justice and Action for all women and girls, featuring UNMISS Civil Affairs Officer Bibi Khadija and civil society leader Mary Pio, Chairperson of the Centre for Women Empowerment. Bibi opened with global and South Sudan-focused figures showing how women remain excluded from peace talks and face rising conflict-related abuses, then broke down the Women, Peace and Security agenda around UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and its four pillars: participation, protection, prevention, and relief and recovery. The conversation then shifted to practical realities in Western Equatoria, where Mary outlined what civil society is doing to increase women’s involvement through capacity building, economic empowerment, GBV survivor support such as counseling and legal referrals, and outreach to grassroots women including persons with disabilities, while also calling for stronger partner support like small grants for women, especially single mothers affected by conflict in places like Tambura.

On the Miraya Breakfast Show, hosts explored the state of youth participation in South Sudan, where most of the population is under 35, but many young people still feel excluded from real decision-making. Guests Boboto David Lubang and Michael Julius Alibe, both youth advocates and research contributors, discussed findings from a youth led study showing that participation is often symbolic rather than meaningful. They spoke about limited influence of youth structures, gaps in civic education, and the need for stronger inclusion of rural youth, young women, and youth with disabilities. The discussion also highlighted the role of digital platforms in widening engagement and called on policymakers to create more practical spaces for young people to influence decisions that affect their lives.

In this episode of Nationwide, host Sani Martin leads an important conversation about trauma in the security sector and its impact on both security personnel and the communities they serve.Together with Anne Bennett and Dan Hales from the DCAF Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance, Christina Rosati from UNMISS, and Malish Godfrey from the Centre for Mind and Body Medicine, the discussion explores:▪️ Why trauma in the security sector is often overlooked and why recognizing it matters ▪️ The difference between stress and trauma and how trauma can affect behavior and decision making ▪️ How unresolved trauma among security personnel can weaken public trust and civil security relations ▪️ The importance of awareness, leadership support, and peer networks in addressing trauma within institutions ▪️ Practical community based techniques such as breathing, movement, and emotional regulation that can help individuals cope with trauma

On the Miraya Breakfast Show, guest Anees Ahmed, Chief of Rule of Law at UNMISS, spoke about the upcoming general court martial in Torit, Eastern Equatoria, which will run from 9 to 20 March. He said the proceedings are meant to strengthen accountability and discipline within the security forces by handling serious crimes, including sexual and gender based offences, while also showing that members of the armed forces are subject to both military and criminal law. He added that the process is part of wider efforts to support justice, protect victims and witnesses, and build public confidence in the rule of law.

On the Miraya Breakfast Show, guest Anees Ahmed, Chief of Rule of Law and Security Institutions at UNMISS, discussed the second phase of the Yei Mobile Court, which runs from 4 to 19 March, to help deliver justice to communities in Greater Yei. He explained that the court is handling serious old and new cases, including sexual and gender based violence, after a long period without a resident judge, and said the initiative is helping reduce case backlogs, bring justice closer to the people, and build trust in peaceful legal processes across Yei, Lainya, and Morobo.

On Radio Miraya’s Chai Talk, hosts Jakob Moyo Felix and Viola Elias led an open discussion on how communities in South Sudan can cope as foreign assistance becomes less certain. The programme explored what self-reliance could look like after years of dependence on humanitarian support, especially in areas affected by conflict, displacement, and hardship. With a guest unable to join, the show turned into an interactive conversation with callers sharing their views on the need for communities and government to invest in agriculture, local production, health, and education so people can better support themselves in the future.

One year after South Sudan confirmed its first Mpox case, the World Health Organization says the country has made progress in detection, local testing and response, but risks remain. In this episode of the WHO Weekly Information Session, National Public Health Officer Dr Abraham Abenego discusses the current situation following a recent death, the role of cross-border movement and low awareness in continued transmission, and what communities should do to recognise symptoms early and prevent the spread.

On the Hard Talk segment of Radio Miraya’s Community Conversations Show, hosts Moyo Jacob Felix and Viola Elias led a timely discussion with expert Tony Kenya on how artificial intelligence can divide and manipulate communities when it is misused.The conversation looked at the growing use of fake voices, images, and videos created through AI, and how such content can spread rumours, fuel mistrust, and mislead the public. Coming at a time of increased attention to cybercrime and digital safety, the programme also explored how the same technology can be used in positive and responsible ways to support peace, unity, and informed public engagement.

On the Miraya Breakfast Show, we spoke with Faidha Mary Akotien Yor from the Women Human Rights Defenders and Gisma Juma Hussen from the South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network about a recent dialogue that brought together civil society leaders and women parliamentarians to push for stronger and more meaningful participation of women in national decision making, including progress toward the thirty five percent commitment, the barriers women still face in politics and public life, and practical steps such as joint advocacy, better information sharing, and stronger protection mechanisms ahead of the expected elections.

After field visits to Malakal and Akobo, Tom Fletcher is shifting the humanitarian conversation in South Sudan from needs to accountability. In this interview, he warns that access promises by the government must translate into results, as aid agencies face rising violence, severe funding pressure and growing protection risks for women and girls. With regional instability linked to the war in Sudan, Fletcher says the crisis is not inevitable, but a solvable test of political will.

Radio Miraya Women’s Talk hosts Jacob Moyo and Viola Elias spoke with Diana Nunu Alison, Director General at the Central Equatoria State Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, about women’s shrinking political space in Central Equatoria. They said the 35 per cent quota in the peace agreement is still poorly enforced, with women often replaced by men, due to male-dominated party structures, weak enforcement mechanisms, and social barriers like domestic burdens, harmful norms, intimidation, and gender based violence. Diana urged stronger civic education, women’s solidarity, and party policies that back women’s participation ahead of elections.

On Radio Miraya’s The Beat, host Donna spoke with Michael Lopuke Lotyam about the Toposa community and their culture. He shared background on who they are, their identity, and some traditions linked to family life and marriage, while also noting how some practices are changing over time.

On the Miraya Breakfast Show, the Warrap State Minister of Information Mamer Bath discusses the extension of the state of emergency to 15 July 2026 due to ongoing intercommunal violence, civilian killings, and widespread illegal firearms. Authorities report collecting over 4,500 weapons, though many civilians remain hesitant to disarm without adequate protection. Additional national forces are expected to support renewed operations, alongside deterrence measures in hard-to-reach areas. The government is also promoting community dialogue and voluntary disarmament, stressing that peace is a shared responsibility. Despite security challenges, schools have reopened, and authorities urge residents to cooperate as efforts continue to stabilise the state.

The Tumaini Initiative has now been formally aligned under the Unified IGAD Regional Peacemaking Framework for South Sudan. The decision was reached during the African Union C5–IGAD Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Speaking to Radio Miraya’s Sani Martin, Ambassador Dr Ali Guyo, Deputy Chief Mediator of the Tumaini Peace Initiative, says the move is intended to consolidate mediation efforts, avoid duplication, and strengthen collective oversight. He adds that the process will now be led by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development’s Special Envoy for South Sudan, with the Tumaini team providing technical and facilitation support.

On Radio Miraya Roundtable, host Yash Garang discussed approaches for overcoming the implementation trap in South Sudan’s peace process, as delays and renewed tensions continue to affect the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement. He was joined by Moses Deng Bol, Patrick Godi, and Juma Mabior Marial. The guests said mistrust among the parties, weak dialogue mechanisms, and renewed fighting have undermined progress, while the African Union’s renewed engagement through the C5 Plus and efforts to harmonize parallel initiatives, including Tumaini, could help rebuild momentum by pushing for inclusive political dialogue, cessation of hostilities, and practical steps toward elections such as security arrangements, legal reforms, and support to election institutions.

On the Miraya Breakfast Show, David Morbe, Central Equatoria’s Minister of Housing and Public Utilities, clarifies the state directive on land demarcation and planning. He explains what activities are suspended, what services remain available, and how citizens can access land legally. The minister addresses concerns about land grabbing, fake documents and school land disputes, and announces an investigation into the reported sale of teachers’ quarters. He urges residents to follow official procedures and avoid illegal brokers.

On the Miraya Breakfast Show, host Juma Emmanuel spoke with UNICEF-supported young reporters Robert Richard and Nene Attif about the Back to Learning campaign and why many children, especially girls, are still out of school in South Sudan. They shared what they heard during door-to-door visits, including poverty, unemployment, unpaid civil servant salaries, and negative attitudes that keep girls at home, as some families prioritise boys or push girls into early marriage. The guests said many children want to study, but families struggle to pay, and they urged parents to do whatever they can to return children to school while calling on authorities to implement plans for free or supported education and improve school conditions, including climate-resilient classrooms, water, and safer learning environments.

On Democracy in Action, host Sani Martin, live from Juba, spoke with independent advocate John Gerry and UNMISS rule of law officer Nyinypiu Rekeboam Madit about rebuilding public trust in South Sudan through stronger accountability and transparency under the rule of law. The guests noted that the 2011 Transitional Constitution establishes the separation of powers, public financial accountability, and the protection of rights, but many citizens still worry about corruption, weak enforcement, and a lack of openness. Gehry said parliament should revive thorough vetting of public appointees and ensure asset declarations are followed as key safeguards against abuse, while Madit pointed to ongoing judicial reforms under the revitalized peace agreement, including efforts to deploy judges to remote areas and clear case backlogs. Listeners raised questions on whether vetting can reduce corruption, what the Anti-Corruption Commission can and cannot do, whether asset declarations are required and accessible, and how access to information can limit misinformation and strengthen trust between citizens and state institutions.

Radio Miraya’s Community Conversations Hot Talk was hosted by Moyo Jacob Felix and Viola Elias, focusing on a major milestone in Eastern Equatoria State: Nimule town receiving electricity for the first time, with power imported from Uganda. The hosts were joined in the studio by Joseph Gama, Chairperson of the Madi Community, and online by Caesar Longa, Mayor of Nimule Municipality. The discussion highlighted how the cross-border power project, implemented through an agreement involving the South Sudan Electricity Corporation and managed locally by Connex Energy Company Limited, is already connecting customers and aims to reach about 1,000 households, with plans for streetlights along key routes. Guests explained expected benefits such as longer business hours, lower costs compared to generators, better study conditions for children, improved health and security, and new jobs for locals, while also noting challenges like access roads, demarcation, safety awareness, affordability for some households, and preventing illegal connections and vandalism, as listeners called in with questions about responsibility, payment, and possible expansion to other areas.

On the Nationwide Discussion Hour on Radio Miraya, host Gabriel Shadar spoke with Amer Madol Majak, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Culture, Museums and National Heritage, Becu Thomas, UNESCO National Professional Officer for Culture, and Mr. Baya Philip Brown, Executive Director in the Office of the Director General at the Wildlife Service, about South Sudan’s push to secure international recognition for the Boma and Badingala Migratory Landscape as the country moves closer to its first UNESCO World Heritage Site status since independence. The guests explained that new survey data has strengthened the case for the site’s global importance, highlighted the scale and uniqueness of the white eared kob migration, and outlined major threats including commercial poaching, bushmeat trade, habitat fragmentation from infrastructure, climate change impacts, and human wildlife conflict. They also discussed what the nomination could mean for South Sudan, including stronger legal protection, improved management planning, increased tourism and livelihoods, national pride, and a shift in the country’s global image beyond conflict narratives.

South Sudan’s National Legislative Assembly has opened a two day public hearing on the finance bill and the draft budget for the 2024 to 2025 fiscal year, bringing together officials, state representatives, civil society, and taxpayers to debate measures aimed at economic recovery amid shrinking fiscal space. Discussions focused on aligning national and state revenue systems, using tariffs to protect local industry and attract investment, and prioritizing health and education as donor funding declines. Business representatives raised concerns about unauthorized fees, double taxation, and being required to pay some taxes in US dollars, calling for assessments to be done inside the country and for payments in local currency. Civil society groups warned that proposed tax and fee increases on basic goods and essential services like water connections could hurt vulnerable families, and urged reductions to support public health, food production, and livelihoods, as lawmakers prepare to compile feedback into a final report for endorsement.

On the Miraya Breakfast Show, host Juma Emmanuel marked World Radio Day by celebrating radio’s role in informing, educating, and connecting communities across South Sudan, while spotlighting the revival of the University of Juba radio station as a boost for media training and future broadcasting. He was joined by Rebecca Lorins, Dean of the School of Journalism, Media and Communication Studies at the University of Juba, and Adeng Kornelio, Head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, who highlighted radio’s accessibility and immediacy, and explained how the upgraded campus FM, supported by JICA through UNESCO, will strengthen hands on learning in radio production, critical thinking, and ethics, while giving students a platform to air programs that reflect both campus life and community issues.

On Radio Miraya’s Health and Wellness Show, host Aluel Adiang marked International Epilepsy Day by raising awareness and standing in solidarity with people living with epilepsy, stressing that the condition is not only medical but also about dignity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Her guest, Kur Ezekiel, a public health officer and member of the Initiative for Epilepsy Awareness in South Sudan, explained that epilepsy is a neurological disorder linked to recurring, usually unprovoked seizures, while some seizures can also be triggered by other conditions such as low blood sugar, malaria, infections, stroke, or diabetes. He emphasised that epilepsy is not contagious and that stigma and myths, including beliefs about curses, drive discrimination in communities. Kur also shared basic seizure first-aid tips, including clearing the area to prevent injury, loosening tight clothing, avoiding restraint, not putting anything in the mouth, staying with them after the seizure, and reassuring them. The discussion also covered equal opportunities in school, work, and marriage, noting that most people living with epilepsy can live normal, productive lives, while caution is needed around certain high-risk activities like climbing heights or operating machinery.

On Democracy in Action, host Sani Martin opened a discussion on South Sudan’s public finance and economic recovery, drawing on the World Bank’s 2026 Public Finance Review and the 2025 Country Climate and Development Report, which highlight widespread poverty, food insecurity, and the country’s heavy dependence on oil revenue. He was joined by three guests: Kishan Abeygunawardana, a Senior Economist at the World Bank, who explained the purpose of the Public Finance Review and pointed to major gaps in data transparency and governance, Stephen Ling, the World Bank Lead Environment Specialist joining from Addis Ababa, who outlined how worsening flooding and rising temperatures are likely to deepen poverty, strain livelihoods, and fuel resource based tensions, and Agook Riak, a Political Affairs Officer with UNMISS, who described South Sudan’s oil dependence as a “paradox of plenty” driven by weak management, accountability, and public trust. The panel also linked weak fiscal discipline to inflation and currency instability, and took listener questions on declining foreign aid and the urgent reforms needed to strengthen public finance management and improve climate disaster response.

On Radio Miraya Nationwide, host Gabriel Shadar linked up with the Miraya on the Road team broadcasting live from Malakal, Upper Nile, where Taban Geofrey Koma spoke with the UNMISS Head of Field Office, Alfred Orono Orono, about the security situation and the planned transition of the Malakal Protection of Civilians site into a settlement under government responsibility. Orono said parts of the state remain relatively calm, with recent incidents in Malakal described mainly as criminal acts, and he noted that authorities have responded with rapid deployments, patrols, and community engagement to prevent panic and restore normal life. He explained that the POC has existed since 2013, but after years of UNMISS support to strengthen policing, courts, prisons, and local dialogue, the government is showing growing capacity to protect civilians, including plans to deploy a dedicated police presence and integrate former police from within the site, while UNMISS remains ready to step in if threats re-emerge. He also addressed the fear that drives people to run to the POC after killings, urging an end to revenge cycles and calling for transparent investigations so communities can trust the justice system.