UNMISS Says Budget Pressures Force Base Closures Despite Ongoing Violence

(Photo Credit: Alfadil Attiya Abuanja / File)

By: Alfadil Attiya Abuanja

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) said financial constraints have forced it to reduce peacekeeping personnel and close some bases, even as insecurity, displacement and humanitarian needs remain high across the country ahead of planned elections in December 2026.

Speaking during commemorations of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers in Juba on Friday, UNMISS chief Anita Kiki Gbeho said the mission was increasingly affected by a wider United Nations funding crisis.

“UNMISS is facing mounting challenges in carrying out this important work, including the impact of the UN-wide financial crisis, which has required a significant reduction in peacekeepers and the closure of bases,” she said.

Despite the cutbacks, Gbeho said peacekeepers continue to provide protection to civilians in conflict-affected areas. She cited a recent incident in Abiemnhom, where UN peacekeepers sheltered more than 2,300 civilians during active fighting.

“Recently in Abiemnhom, peacekeepers provided sanctuary to more than 2,300 civilians under live gunfire,” she said.

According to UNMISS, peacekeepers continue to conduct land, air and river patrols, secure humanitarian airdrop zones and escort aid convoys delivering life-saving assistance to vulnerable communities.

“People must come first in all that we do,” Gbeho added.

South Sudan is preparing for its first elections since independence in 2011, scheduled for December 2026, amid ongoing political and security challenges.

Representing the government at the event, Albino Akol Atak reaffirmed the government's commitment to implementing the peace agreement and creating conditions for peaceful and credible elections.

“We believe that the meaningful participation of all stakeholders remains essential for credible, peaceful and successful elections,” he said.

Atak pledged continued cooperation with UNMISS and said authorities would guarantee freedom of movement and protection for United Nations personnel and humanitarian workers.

“We strongly condemn any attacks or acts of hostility directed against peacekeepers, humanitarian workers and United Nations personnel,” he said.

This year's Peacekeepers Day commemoration was held under the theme “Invest in Peace.” Officials also paid tribute to peacekeepers who lost their lives in the line of duty, including a Ukrainian crew member killed during an attack on a UNMISS helicopter last year.

Established in 2011 following South Sudan’s independence, United Nations Mission in South Sudan remains a key international presence supporting civilian protection, peacebuilding and humanitarian operations amid recurring conflict and instability.