SRSG Pledges UNMISS Support During Visit to Eastern Equatoria State
UNMISS Press Release
19 August 2011
SRSG Pledges UNMISS Support During Visit to Eastern Equatoria State
Juba, 19 Aug 2011 – The Special Representative of the UN Secretary General (SRSG), Hilde F. Johnson began a one day visit to Eastern Equatoria state today to pledge support of the new UN mission, UNMISS, for the population and state authorities. SRSG Johnson will meet with the State Governor and representatives from civil society organisations in Torit before travelling on to Kapoeta to meet the County Commissioner and the Commander of Brigade 9 of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army’s (SPLA) 2nd Division.
SRSG Johnson said: “I want to reach out across South Sudan and listen to the concerns and priorities of ordinary people and the local Government. South Sudan faces significant challenges ahead and it is vital that the new UN mission in South Sudan adapts to meet the needs of the people.
“Our new mandate tasks us to step up efforts to support the Government in consolidating peace, building stability, helping the state authorities to protect the most vulnerable communities and facilitating development progress by UN agencies and NGOs. UNMISS will work closely with the people and Government to build a better future for all peoples of South Sudan.”
South Sudan’s struggle for independence began in Eastern Equatoria state in 1955. As a mark of respect SRSG Johnson will also view the independence flag on Kinyeti Mountain with state officials.
Ends.