![UNMISS troops seen in an area in South Sudan [Photo by UNMISS]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/1548323657_4730852_1548323577_7822933south-sudan-peacekeepers.jpg?resize=1008%2C664&ssl=1)
The U.N. peacekeeping mission issued this statement following recent violent incidents that have forced thousands of people to flee their homes.
On October 25, 2024, four civilians were killed and two others injured by unidentified gunmen in Tambura. Additionally, on November 1, 2024, a house belonging to a female staff member at the County headquarters was set on fire.
Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, expressed concern over unconfirmed reports of the mobilization of armed groups, which have heightened tensions and fear among local communities.
The violence has led to a surge in the number of displaced people seeking refuge at a site adjacent to the UNMISS temporary operating base in Tambura, increasing from 3,700 to 10,500.
“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,” Haysom said.
UNMISS has increased its peacekeeping patrols in Tambura, both during the day and at night. The mission previously reinforced its protective presence by deploying additional troops to Tambura and Yambio in response to the conflict that erupted in April 2024.
“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,” Haysom added.
The mission is actively engaging with traditional and community leaders, as well as key political and security actors at the local, state, and national levels to address the conflict.
