Radio Miraya

Guest: - Mbela Mbonde Njumbe, UNV Civil Affairs Officer, UNMISS

Guest: - Mengyu Hao, UNV Information Management Officer, UNMISS

Guest: - Benjamin Azineh, UNV Human Rights Officer, UNMISS

Guest: - Juliette Francois-Blouin, UNV Human Rights Officer

Guest: - Mohammaed Nazrul, UNV Property Disposal Assistant, UNMISS

Guest: - Matiisetso Mosala - UNV Public Information Officer at UNMISS

Guests:- Eleanor Snaders, UK Ambassador for Human Rights and Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nation.- Jackline Nasiwa, Human Rights Defender

Guests: - Dr Marial Cuir Khoc, Director General for Programmes in AIDS Commission - Victoria Natoni Daniel, Program Officer, National Empowerment of Positive Women United Organization - Laila Lole, Executive Director, South Sudan Network of People living with HIV

South Sudan joins the global community in marking World Soil Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the vital role soil plays in the country's food security, environment, and future. Here, where agriculture is the backbone of many livelihoods, healthy soil is more than just the ground beneath people's feet, it's the foundation of South Sudanese communities and their resilience.Dara Elisa, Agriculturalist highlights why protecting soils matters, what challenges they face, and the actions can be taken to safeguard this precious resource.Guest:- Dara Elisa, Agriculturist

Guest:- Hon Patrick Nyarsuk, CES Minister of Information and Communication - Charles Laku, Chairperson Custom market, Chamber of commerce

This episode of Nationwide explores the rising threat of digital violence against women and girls in South Sudan as part of the 16 Days of Activism. A panel of activists highlights how online spaces are increasingly used for harassment, body-shaming, intimidation, stalking, and even trafficking. Preliminary research by GoGirls ICT shows high vulnerability among young women aged 25–34, with harmful content spreading rapidly on platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook. Guests stress that cultural norms, policy gaps, weak data protection, and low digital literacy worsen the problem. They call for stronger legal frameworks, digital safety education, responsible online behaviour, and collective community action. In the studio, Gabriel Shadar is in conversation with: Dimba Shafic Taban, Secretary for County Affairs, Central Equatoria State Kurakuli Sette,Member of Power Space, Youth Led Organisation Mrs. Yine Yenki Nyika, Co-Founder GoGirls ICT Initiative Nyamal Kawai Lim, Member of Ma-Mara Sakit

Guests:- Dr. Micheal Mading, Director General for Reproductive Health- Dr. Paula Nuer, WHO

As the mobile court deploys in Yei, Central Equatoria State, UNMISS Rule of Law and Security Institutions Support Chief, Anees Ahmed says deployment fills a critical justice gap after years without functioning courts in Yei, Lainya and Morobo. The court will hear 46 serious cases, including SGBV and murder, with local partners providing support to vulnerable survivors. He notes that weak investigations, stigma and insecurity still hinder justice but says the court helps restore public confidence. Ahmed adds that mobile courts are temporary, with long-term justice hubs planned.

Guest: - Terna Ager, General Medical Practitioner at UNMISS

This episode of Democracy in Action explores the crucial but often overlooked role of women in mediation and conflict resolution in South Sudan. Guests who are members of the South Sudan Women Mediators, Florence Agiba and Sarah Poni discuss women’s unique strengths as peacebuilders, the cultural and structural barriers limiting their inclusion, and why enforcing the 35% affirmative action is critical. The conversation also examines how excluding women affects national stability and prospects for lasting peace.

Guest: - Engineer Mosety Kat, Manager of Juba International Airport.

Guests:• Choul Tut Gach, Peace mobilizer• Modi Joseph Robert, Peace mobilizer • Jacob Chol Atem, Peace mobilizer

A five-day consultative dialogue has opened in Juba, bringing together the parties who signed the 2018 peace agreement, alongside key stakeholders such as RJMEC, the African Union, faith-based leaders and UNMISS Political Affairs. This meeting comes at a time when implementation of the peace deal has slowed down. So how significant is this consultation? Can it address the real causes behind the delays and help revive the agreement? To unpack these questions, we are joined by: • Hon. Taban Luka, representing National Agenda, ITGONU • Kevina Aber, from the South Sudan Women Mediators Network • Michael Majure, SPLM Deputy Secretary for Political Affairs and Mobilization Listen in.

We focus on how Steward Women is expanding access to justice in Raja through free legal aid and community-based dispute resolution. Legal Aid Officer Alice Bogere explains the organisation’s services for survivors of gender-based and conflict-related violence, why lack of awareness remains a major barrier, and how mediation and arbitration are helping resolve minor disputes quickly where courts are overstretched. She also highlights rising GBV cases, the limits of statutory courts, and ongoing efforts to educate communities during the 16 Days of Activism.

Over three days, stakeholders met in Juba to address escalating violence, political mistrust, delayed implementation of the R-ARCSS, and shrinking civic space. The dialogue produced several recommendations: fully implement the peace agreement, convene an inclusive national political dialogue, revise the transitional roadmap, operationalise transitional justice bodies, unify forces, and guarantee women’s 35% participation. Stakeholders also urged protection of civic space, credible preparations for elections, and renewed political will. The Miraya Breakfast Show is in conversation with: Adut Christina, Executive Director of the South Sudan Women’s Empowerment Network Galdino Ochama, Chairperson of the South Sudan Civil Society Forum

As South Sudan prepares for a permanent constitution, the National Constitutional Review Commission has begun a nationwide campaign to educate citizens and gather their views. After completing its first round of consultations in four states, a second team has now been sent to Western Equatoria, Jonglei and Lakes State to continue hearing from the public.But how will these opinions shape the final document? Will the voices of ordinary citizens, especially those in remote communities, carry real influence, or will political elites dominate the process?In This episode of The Roundtable, we discuss whether public opinion truly matters in the constitution-making process and how citizen views will be incorporated into the final draft.Joining us on the panel are: Hon. Gatluak Pech Dak (Northern Bahr El Ghazal) Hon. John Abraham Nataana – Secretary General, National Constitutional Review Commission Hon. Abraham Gum (Western Bahr El Ghazal) Oyet Patrick – Head of Civic Education & Public Consultations Listen in.

This week's health informational segment in colaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) discusses the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) with Andrew Baguma from the World Health Organization. Baguma explains how misuse of antibiotics, self-medication, weak diagnostics, and poor regulation are driving AMR in South Sudan. He outlines this year’s global campaign, emphasising responsible antibiotic use, vaccination, hygiene, and stronger surveillance. Baguma also highlights WHO’s support to the government through training, laboratory strengthening, public awareness, and improving infection-prevention systems across the country.

A mobile court deployed in Bunj, Maban County has delivered verdicts on 28 serious criminal cases, including murder and sexual and gender-based violence. The court convicted 23 people, acquitted 12 and ordered the release of 22 who were wrongfully detained or had already served their sentences. With Upper Nile lacking a high court judge since 2021, we speak to Judge Mojahed Akol on what these outcomes mean for access to justice.

In this episode, we take a closer look at airport safety, passenger care and the growing opportunities within South Sudan’s aviation sector. Officials from the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority explain why protecting airport spaces, improving passenger experience and investing in aviation careers are key to safer skies and national development.Joining us in the studio are Mr. David Loputu, PR & Communications Manager, and Mr. Paul Bith, Deputy PR & Communications Manager at the SSCAA. They break down public safety around airport buffer zones, passenger service standards, handling of human remains, and training programs opening aviation jobs for South Sudanese.Listen in as we explore how securing our skies also serves the people of South Sudan.

We focus on South Sudan’s worsening air quality and rising heat levels as the country enters the peak of the dry season. The expert explains the causes, health impacts, and the practical steps communities can take to protect themselves. The conversation also highlights the role of authorities in enforcing environmental policies and improving public awareness. The Miraya Breakfast Show is in conversation with: Nyamach Hoth Mai, Environmental Specialist

A new nationwide survey shows a sharp decline in how South Sudanese perceive peace and everyday security. Conducted across 15 counties and one administrative area by researchers from Coventry University, Columbia University, the University of Juba and partner institutions, the poll reveals that only 49% of respondents believe the country is at peace, down from 66% last year. Coventry University Associate Professor Jan Pospisil says the drop is linked to recent insecurity in Western Equatoria, Central Equatoria, and emerging incidents in other regions. He notes this is the first statistically significant decline since the survey began. Yet, despite rising concerns, 80% of respondents say they are willing to vote in upcoming elections.

In this episode, we sit down with surgeon Dr. Maku Stephen Bakasoro for an easy, honest conversation about hernias, how they start, the different types we commonly see here at home, and the early signs people should never ignore. We also talk about everyday causes, simple prevention tips, and when it’s truly time to seek medical help. If you’ve ever seen a swelling or felt discomfort and wondered what it might be, this episode gently guides you through what you need to know, without fear or confusion.

This episode examines the role of traditional authorities in South Sudan and the challenges facing the Council of Traditional Authority Leaders (COTAL). While chiefs remain central to community cohesion, their impact is weakened by unclear legal mandates, poor coordination with government, rising security pressures, and limited inclusion of women. The discussion explores how strengthening customary leadership can improve conflict resolution, governance, and reconciliation. Panelists: Prince Tadeo Mario Sasa, NCOTAL Secretariat Secretary General Chief Magdalena Tito, Chairperson of Eastern Equatoria State COTAL, member of NCOTAL Secretariat Chief Kuol Amet Kuol, Representative of Warrap State COTAL, member of NCOTAL Secretariat

Today on Radio Miraya, we speak with Ms. Florence Gillette, the outgoing Head of Delegation for the International Committee of the Red Cross in South Sudan. Her tenure coincided with some of the most challenging moments for humanitarian operations, from the impact of the Sudanese conflict spilling into South Sudan, to major funding cuts affecting essential services, and the worsening humanitarian consequences of political and security instability across the country.In this interview, Ms. Gillette shares her reflections on the progress made, the obstacles faced, and what the future may hold for humanitarian response in South Sudan.

This episode of Nationwide focuses on the humanitarian response in Renk County, Upper Nile State, where thousands of refugees and returnees from Sudan continue to arrive. The programme features Save the Children staff discussing mental health support, child protection, and emergency education services for displaced families. Listeners hear how child-friendly spaces, psychosocial support, teacher training, and school incentives are helping children cope with trauma and return to learning. The episode also explores challenges faced by women and children, community resilience, and success stories of recovery. Callers from across the country engage with the discussion, raising questions on services, expansion, and impact. Live from Renk County, Sani Martin is in conversation with: Nyagoa Taban Juk, Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Officer, Save the Children Barnaba Bol Yach, Education Officer, Save the Children

This week's episode focuses on managing diabetes. It also provides practical guidance for those living with the condition, emphasising blood-sugar monitoring, medication, and routine check-ups. The episode encourages community awareness, reduces stigma, and promotes healthier daily habits for long-term wellbeing. Radio Miraya's Magdolin Kwajok Joseph is in conversation with Dr Patrick Sokiri.

Local government sits at the third tier of South Sudan’s decentralised system of governance, yet its powers, responsibilities, and constitutional relationship with state and national authorities remain unclear to many officials and citizens.Under the 2009 Local Government Act, the country operates a decentralised framework made up of counties, payams, and bomas, supported by both formal state institutions and traditional authorities. But years of conflict, displacement, and shifting community structures have weakened these systems and blurred how local governance is meant to function.As South Sudan heads toward adopting a permanent constitution, key questions arise: What exactly is the role of local government? How should power be shared across the three levels? And should the 2009 Local Government Act be amended — or abolished altogether?Today, we unpack these issues with a distinguished panel: Hon. Gen. Losuba Ludoru Wongo, National Minister of Federal Affairs Hon. Michael Majok, Chairperson of the Local Government Board Hon. Bridget Nagomoro, Civil Society Member and former Commissioner of Ibba Hon. Alhaj Franco, Director of Training, Ministry of Local Government, Central Equatoria Listen in as we explore the complexities, challenges, and future of local governance in South Sudan.

The University of Juba’s School of Mathematics has officially released the results of the 7th South Sudan Mathematics Olympiad, held on the 8th of November 2025.The competition brought together some of the country’s brightest young minds—students with a passion for numbers, logic, and problem-solving.And rising above them all this year is Biliu Panom Chol, a Form Four student from Darling Wisdom Academy Secondary School, Glasgow Campus, who achieved the highest score in the national contest.Today on the Miraya Breakfast Show, we’re honored to have Biliu with us. He’ll share his journey, his experience at the Olympiad, and what fuels his remarkable love for mathematics.Listen in for an inspiring conversation.

Since independence in 2011, South Sudan has been working to build governance structures that are inclusive, responsive, and rooted in the needs of its diverse communities. Decentralization was designed to be a cornerstone of that vision — a system that empowers local authorities, enhances public participation, and brings essential services closer to the people.But while power is shared across national, state, and local levels in theory, the reality on the ground is far more complex. Counties, payams, and bomas often struggle with limited administrative capacity, scarce funding, political interference, and weak coordination. The result is a gap between policy and practice — and a growing sense among citizens that decision-making still feels distant from their daily lives.In this episode, we dive into what it will take to strengthen decentralization in South Sudan so that governance becomes more inclusive, transparent, and truly responsive to communities across the country.Joining us are: Hon. Light Wilson Angwa, Acting Undersecretary in the Ministry of Federal Affairs, and Mr. Jierkuei Marek Anyuon, Independent Analyst.Stay tuned as we unpack the challenges, opportunities, and the path forward for effective local governance in South Sudan.

On today’s episode, we take a closer look at an issue quietly affecting many families across South Sudan, Hepatitis, and particularly Hepatitis E. Recent reports show a rise in cases, especially in Northern Bahr el Ghazal. Many have heard about Hepatitis, but few understand what it really is, how it spreads, or how to stay safe. Hepatitis E is often linked to unclean water and poor sanitation, challenges that remain common in many communities. To help us understand more about this disease and how to protect ourselves and our loved ones, we’re joined by Anthony Machok, a Clinical Officer with Friends of Humanity.

UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix on Tuesday briefed the Security Council on the situation in South Sudan. Lacroix warned that the peace process is losing ground amid rising violence, political tensions, and a deepening humanitarian crisis, urging renewed dialogue and commitment from all parties to prevent further instability.We bring you his full statement. UN Photo/Loey Felipe

Today, we’re diving into a conversation that touches the very heart of South Sudan’s struggle for peace, the issue of guns in civilian hands.For years, many communities have held onto weapons for protection, to guard their families, cattle, and livelihoods. But the reality is that more guns have often led to more fear, mistrust, and violence.So, how do we begin to change this mindset?How do we move from a society that depends on the gun to one that trusts the law — and feels truly protected by it?And what lessons can we draw from past disarmament efforts that fell short of their goals?To unpack these questions, Irene Lasu spoke with Lou Geofry Duke, African Scholars in Peace, Security & Development Fellow at the African Leadership Centre, King’s College London.

On this episode, we highlight the role of women journalists in promoting democratic governance in South Sudan.They are amplifying women’s voices in politics, the economy, and public life.Journalists say increasing women’s participation in civic life is essential to advancing gender equality.Yach Garang James is hosting: Leila Ousman Khamis, Deputy Chairperson, Female Journalists Network Ibasi Patricia Toba, Radio Community News Editor Maura Ajak, freelance journalist

Today, we’re focusing on maternal health in South Sudan, a pressing national concern that continues to claim the lives of too many women. Vice President Rebecca Nyandeng recently met with the Association of Gynecologists and Obstetricians of South Sudan to address the country’s high maternal mortality rate and the cultural and structural barriers that continue to endanger women during childbirth. The Association also announced its upcoming Annual Scientific Conference, which will bring together experts and policymakers to seek long-term solutions for improving maternal and reproductive health services across the country. Joining us to discuss this is Dr. Zechariah James Malel, President of the Association of Gynecologists and Obstetricians of South Sudan.

In this episode, we’re looking at how climate change is disrupting children’s learning in South Sudan, through floods, droughts, and displacement, and what can be done to keep classrooms open.The new BRACE Programme, Building the Climate Resilience of Children and Communities through the Education Sector, aims to strengthen school infrastructure, maintain learning during climate emergencies, and help communities adapt.Joining us are Mr. George Mogga from the Ministry of General Education and Instruction, Christopher Nyamandi, Save the Children Country Director, and Duku Alfred, Save the Children Climate and FSL Focal Person.

A few months ago, a group of South Sudanese civil society activists, faith leaders, and community influencers came together to launch a home-grown peace initiative — a locally led effort designed to complement national peace processes and revive dialogue among communities.Unlike externally driven approaches, this initiative draws from South Sudan’s own traditions of reconciliation, dialogue, and community mediation, putting citizens at the heart of peacebuilding.So, where does this initiative stand today? What progress has been made, and what lies ahead on the road to peace?Joining us to unpack these questions is Lorna Merekaje, civil society activist and member of the South Sudan Home-Grown Peace Initiative.

A collaboration of four musicians from the Greater Pibor Administrative Area and Jonglei State is now serenading listeners across South Sudan with a powerful new song for peace. Behind the melodies lies a deeper message - a call to end the violence, cattle raiding, and child abductions that have long affected communities in the region.Radio Miraya’s Samuel Pawon spoke with three of the four artists behind the song to learn how music is helping to heal and unite divided communities. he is in conversation with: Franco Korok Kengen Mary Tarifa Fasai Makech Aluong Deng The campaign is supported by the Reconciliation, Stabilisation, and Resilience in South Sudan (RSRTF), an initiative by the UNMISS and the United Nations country team aimed at addressing the complex challenges in South Sudan, particularly by targeting the root causes of conflict in hotspots.

It’s been just over a year since cholera was declared in South Sudan, after initial cases in Renk County, Upper Nile.More than 50 counties across seven states have been affected. In response, the government and partners rolled out oral cholera vaccination, treatment, and water-sanitation measures to curb a disease that has claimed lives over the past year.So, what worked, what didn’t, and what’s next?Did the response strengthen South Sudan’s emergency preparedness and health system for future outbreaks?Our guest is Dr. Aggrey Bategereza, Emergency Preparedness and Response Team Lead, WHO South Sudan.Listen in.

Four artists from Jonglei and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area have combined their voices, using creativity to challenge the persistent cattle raiding and child abductions in the region. The creative collaboration is part of a peace drive spearheaded by partners who include the Peace and Reconciliation Commission of Greater Pibor. Commission Chairperson, James Nyikcho Pirya tells Radio Miraya that the campaign will be reinforced by justice and accountability measures designed to uphold the rule of law and curb cross-border crimes. The campaign is supported by the Reconciliation, Stabilisation, and Resilience in South Sudan (RSRTF), an initiative by the UNMISS and the United Nations country team aimed at addressing the complex challenges in South Sudan, particularly by targeting the root causes of conflict in hotspots.

On this Miraya Roundtable episode, we explore the Home-Grown Peace Initiative for South Sudan (HGPI-SS), a citizen-led movement putting South Sudanese voices at the centre of peacebuilding. The initiative aims to make peace a national priority rooted in dialogue, reconciliation, and community ownership. Sani Martin hosts: Bishop Zacharia Manyok Biar, Chairman of the strategy Committee for South Sudan Council of Churches. Kezia Lenyiwa, Executive Director Your AID for Health, And Volunteer for HGPI-SS Guya Scopas, Volunteer for Publicity, Media and Advocacy In HGPI-SS

This week on Working Together, we focus on efforts to fight food insecurity in South Sudan. As the world marks World Food Day, we explore how government institutions and humanitarian partners are collaborating to build sustainable and climate-resilient food systems. Joining host Tidio Betty are Ms. Nahid Remis, Acting Director for National Food Reserve at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security; Mr. Nicholas Kerandi, Food Security Specialist at FAO; and Mr. Mackenzie Masocha, Agriculture and Rural Development Expert at Welthungerhilfe.

On this episode of our World Health Organization Weekly Information Update we focus on South Sudan's ongoing battle against cholera and the vital tole of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) in stopping its spread. As health teams intensify response efforts, our guests Chandapiwa Kativu and Angeth Pamela Buol, WASH officers from the WHO, share insights from the field on how access to clean water, proper hygiene, and safe sanitation can prevent, protect communities, save lives.

This episode explores South Sudan’s ongoing efforts in Security Sector Reform (SSR) - a vital process linked to Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR). As the country marks DDR Week, the discussion focuses on transforming wartime security institutions into accountable, professional, and citizen-centered bodies. Guests Wilson Lual, Executive Secretary for DDR, and Innocent Mugabo from UNMISS, reflect on progress in reintegration, the unification of forces, and the importance of building public trust for lasting peace and stability.

Guest: - Wilson Lual Lual, Acting Executive Director of the National Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration, and DDR expert.

Guests: 1. Motwakil Awol Mamuor – Deputy Chairperson of the South Sudan National Youth Union. 2. These Marial Rong – Secretary of Information, SSNYU 3. Florance Ageba, Secretary of Research, SSNYU