Strengthening communal peace and social cohesion in South Sudan

The Upper Nile Youth Development Association (UNYDA), with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is implementing the “ Strengthening Communal Peace and Social Cohesion in Malakal Town, Malakal PoC, Fashoda, Baliet and Akoka in Upper Nile, South Sudan “ project. This project aims to strengthen communal peace and social cohesion in Upper Nile State, South Sudan, by facilitating healing, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence, thereby reducing conflict, improving community relationships, and enhancing the overall well-being of local populations.

Upper Nile State has been severely affected by conflict and violence, disrupting the social fabric and stability of the region, particularly in Malakal and Renk. Prolonged conflict has caused widespread psychosocial trauma among residents, further exacerbated by the absence of structured community-based psychosocial support systems. The Sudan crisis has compounded these issues, escalating trauma and stress among displaced persons, returnees, and residents, disrupting social cohesion and straining community relationships.

In response to the urgent need for psychosocial support in conflict-affected areas, this project established and operationalized Psychosocial Community Volunteer (PCV) teams in Malakal and Renk, each comprising 30 volunteers. These teams deliver immediate, accessible support aimed at facilitating healing and mitigating the long-term psychological effects of conflict. The PCVs are selfless volunteers, motivated by a genuine desire to help others rather than material or financial gain. To ensure their effectiveness, the PCVs participated in an intensive five-day training program led by UNDP-certified Trauma Healing and Psychosocial Support Trainers.

Following their training, the PCVs were equipped with essential operational supplies, including notebooks, T-shirts, gumboots, bags, and rain jackets. For a period of four months, through December 2024, they will also receive a stipend of 10 USD to cover transport and airtime expenses. In addition, the project provides ongoing support in compiling activity reports, fostering effective communication, enhancing operational capacity, and ensuring accountability in their roles within the community.