The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) said on Friday that financial constraints have forced it to cut peacekeeping personnel and close some bases, even as insecurity, displacement and humanitarian needs persist across the country ahead of planned elections in 2026.
Speaking during commemorations of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers in Juba, UNMISS head Anita Kiki Gbeho said the mission was being affected by a wider UN financial 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.
She said UN peacekeepers recently provided protection to more than 2,300 civilians in Abiemnhom during active fighting.
“Recently in Abiemnhom, peacekeepers provided sanctuary to more than 2,300 civilians under live gunfire,” Gbeho said.
She added that peacekeepers continue to conduct land, air and river patrols, secure humanitarian airdrop zones and escort aid convoys delivering supplies to conflict-affected communities.
“People must come first in all that we do,” she said.
South Sudan is due to hold elections in December 2026, its first since independence in 2011.
Humanitarian Affairs Minister Albino Atak, speaking on behalf of the government, said authorities remained committed to implementing the peace agreement and ensuring preparations for peaceful elections.
“We believe that the meaningful participation of all stakeholders … remain essential for credible, peaceful and successful elections,” he said.
Atak said the government would continue working with UNMISS and would guarantee freedom of movement and protection for UN 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 commemoration was held under the theme “Invest in Peace.”
Officials also paid tribute to peacekeepers killed in the line of duty, including a Ukrainian crew member who died in an attack on a UNMISS helicopter last year.
UNMISS was established in 2011 following South Sudan’s independence and has remained central to civilian protection amid recurring conflict and instability.
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