MCK RADIO, Juba (2026)

29/03/2026

Fears grow over funding as Wau peace dialogue offers hope

March 29, 2026 WAU

A civil society organization has concluded a two-day peace dialogue in Wau County, bringing together government officials, community leaders, and civil society actors to address rising tensions, amid concern that progress could be reversed if funding ends.

The discussions, organized by the Development Alliance Legacy for Mama Angue and Awan Child Care Solidarity (DALMAS) and supported by the International Organization for Migration, convened 36 participants from Wau County and Wau Municipality, including traditional leaders, youth, and women. They focused on key drivers of conflict, such as cattle-related disputes, hate speech, and preparations for upcoming elections.

“This two-day dialogue brought together government officials, traditional leaders, women, youth, and civil society actors,” said James Umuor Maciek, DALMAS director. “We are now moving from theory to practice.”

Recurring clashes between host communities and pastoralists moving cattle through contested areas remain a major source of insecurity.

“One of the biggest challenges in Wau County is conflict related to cattle keepers,” Maciek said. “There are tensions between host communities and pastoralists. This has created repeated conflict and insecurity.”

He added that the disputes are driven by multiple factors beyond cattle movement, including historical grievances, political dynamics, and economic pressures. Some conflicts involve influential actors linked to business and security networks.

Despite these challenges, participants said the dialogue is helping shift attitudes.

“People are beginning to see that violence is not the solution — dialogue is,” Maciek said.

Still, he warned that gains remain fragile. “If the project ends now, many gaps will remain, and the progress we are seeing could be lost,” he said.

Limited reach was another concern, particularly in remote areas where conflict is most intense.

“

17/03/2026

*A Fresh Start for Torit’s Women Traders as New Market Stalls Open*

TORIT, Eastern Equatoria State March 17, 2026 Under the bright sun in Torit town, a group of women gathered around a newly constructed shelter, their baskets of fresh vegetables neatly arranged on clean tables a sharp contrast to the dusty ground where many once traded.

For years, vendors like Mary Luka sold produce in difficult conditions, often exposing food to dirt and health risks. But that reality is beginning to change following the official opening of new vegetable market stalls built by the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative (WPDI) with support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

The facility, handed over to the Torit Women Cooperative Group and municipal authorities, is already impacting at least 245 people most of them women striving to support their families through small-scale trade.

Construction of the market began in November 2025 as part of a broader effort to revive local markets and create safer, more organized trading spaces. Beyond infrastructure, the initiative reflects a growing push to strengthen community resilience amid economic uncertainty and declining humanitarian assistance.

“This is primarily to help you become self-sufficient,” said WPDI Country Manager Dagu David during the handover ceremony, urging traders to make full use of the opportunity while maintaining the facility.
For many women, the new stalls represent more than just a workplace they symbolize dignity and hope. “The construction will make us stand strong with the current crisis,” said trader Martha Peter, pointing to the absence of regular incomes such as government salaries.
Local leaders also see the project as a turning point.

Mayor Oyito Baptist Soforonio described the launch as the realization of a long-awaited dream, encouraging the community to embrace entrepreneurship and shared responsibility in sustaining the market.
Women leaders echoed similar sentimen

14/01/2026

MUNDARI COMMUNITY TWO-DAY DIALOGUE KICKS OFF IN TEREKEKA

Terekeka, Central Equatoria State – 14 January 2026

A major peace and reconciliation dialogue bringing together community leaders, elders, youth and women from the Mundari community has commenced in Terekeka County, with calls for unity, accountability and improved cooperation among local groups.

The two-day forum, which opened Monday, is being spearheaded by youth and community leaders with support from local authorities. Organizers say the gathering seeks to address internal challenges facing the Mundari community and foster a shared vision for long-term peace and development.

Terekeka County Commissioner Emmanuel Laku, who presided over the opening, reaffirmed the county government’s endorsement of grassroots approaches to peacebuilding. He urged participants to take ownership of their community’s stability.

“Peace cannot be imposed from outside. It must come from within the community. The county government fully supports this dialogue and any effort that promotes stability, coexistence and development in Terekeka,” Commissioner Laku said.

Bush Buse, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, described the forum as a critical intervention at a time when internal rifts threaten unity.

“This dialogue is meant to give our people a platform to speak openly, resolve misunderstandings and rebuild trust among ourselves. As Mundari, we must take responsibility for our peace and future,” Buse noted, urging participants to exchange views honestly and work toward implementable solutions.

Youth representatives echoed similar sentiments.

Terekeka Youth Association Chairperson, Marko Majok, underscored the role of young people in breaking cycles of conflict.

“The youth are committed to peace. We want to be part of the solution, not the problem.

This dialogue gives us hope that our voices will be heard and our concerns addressed,” Majok said.
The dialogue will cover topics including reconciliation, the role of traditional l

06/12/2025

Sout Al Shaab: New Youth-Led Movement Launches to Champion Nonviolence and Citizen Empowerment in South Sudan

A new South Sudanese youth-led initiative, Sout Al Shaab (Voice of the People), has officially launched with a bold vision to reshape civic engagement and advance nonviolent social change across the country. The movement was unveiled during a press statement attended by members of the media, invited guests, and members of the public.

Positioning itself as a nonviolent, non-profit and non-partisan social movement, Sout Al Shaab aims to mobilize and organize citizens to influence public policy, strengthen decision-making processes, and promote community-driven actions. The initiative envisions an “informed citizenry acting as agents of social, economic and political transformation for sustainable peace and development in South Sudan.”

According to the founders, the movement seeks to play an active role in nation-building through peaceful and grassroots engagements. It plans to advocate for justice, equal rights, and inclusive governance while amplifying the voices of ordinary citizens. The platform will also support a wide range of peacebuilding interventions, including civic education, public debates, mediation, dialogues, capacity-building programs, and lawful civil actions such as litigation and petitioning.

Organizers emphasized that the country’s ongoing challenges—many of them human-made—highlight the urgent need for a civic movement grounded in nonviolence. They commended the resilience of South Sudanese communities, noting that their endurance continues to inspire the birth of new ideas and homegrown solutions.

“Sout Al Shaab is born out of the belief that our motherland thirsts for constructive, peaceful engagement,” the statement read. “Dear Shaab, be a voice anywhere and everywhere. Together, we will make nonviolence a new normal for the current and future generations.”

The movement encourages citizens from all walks of life to join its efforts in promoting accountability, justice, and lasting peace through peaceful means.

For more information or to engage with the initiative, Sout Al Shaab invites the public to reach out through its official communication channels.

21/11/2025

Digitel, SSAF Sign 10-Year Deal to Boost Athletics and National Unity

Juba , south Sudan

Nov 21, 2025
Digitel Telecommunications and the South Sudan Athletics Federation (SSAF) have signed a landmark 10-year partnership aimed at transforming athletics and empowering young talent across the country. The agreement was formalized during a ceremony in Juba attended by Digitel executives, SSAF officials, athletes, and media representatives.

SSAF Secretary-General Adv. Marco AkoL described the partnership as a powerful collaboration built on shared goals. He said Digitel’s support comes at a time when the federation is striving to strengthen athlete development, expand national competitions, and raise South Sudan’s global sporting profile.

Digitel Chief Commercial Officer Mr. Abdul emphasized that the deal is more than a sponsorship—it is an investment in the nation’s youth. He said Digitel was impressed by the success of the 2024 Independence Marathon and was committed to sustaining such initiatives. According to him, the company aims to nurture homegrown champions capable of competing internationally.

Digitel EVP De Chan Awoul reaffirmed the company’s focus on community support and national unity. He announced plans to develop the Digitel Independence Marathon into a world-class annual event open to all South Sudanese, expatriates, and regional athletes from Uganda, Kenya, and beyond. He said participation from all 64 tribes would make the event a symbol of peace and national pride.

Key Clarifications from Digitel

During a media Q&A, Digitel clarified its nationwide approach, stating that athletes from all 10 states and the three administrative areas will be supported. The company also revealed plans to use digital platforms for athlete registration and communication.

Digitel explained that the 120 million SSP previously displayed represented historical spending on athletics. The new agreement includes $10,000 annually for 10 years, plus additional support for marathon organization, athlete training, and infrastructure improvements at Buluk Stadium.

SSAF Looking Ahead

SSAF confirmed plans to invite regional athletes to future marathons and expand its kids’ athletics program in Wau, Torit, Aweil, and other towns. Marco said South Sudan has natural talent across sprints, field events, and marathons, and the partnership will help unlock that potential.

The signing concluded with a group photo session, marking the start of a long-term collaboration expected to reshape the nation’s athletic future.

21/11/2025

UNDP, Cooperative Bank Sign Deal to Boost Rural Finance in South Sudan

November 21, 2025 — JUBA
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Cooperative Bank of South Sudan on Friday signed a landmark agreement aimed at expanding financial services for farmers and rural enterprises, in what officials say is a major step toward transforming South Sudan’s agricultural economy.

The partnership is part of the seven-year Rural Enterprise and Agricultural Development (READ) project, a multi-donor initiative designed to improve credit access, strengthen cooperatives, and build financial literacy in seven counties. The project is supported by a $20 million grant from IFAD, alongside contributions from the Government of South Sudan ($1.4 million), Cooperative Bank ($1.8 million), UNDP ($1.4 million) and local communities ($700,000).

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Caroline Mwongera, IFAD Country Director, said the agreement marks “a transformational step in strengthening South Sudan’s rural financial systems.” The project aims to reach 162,000 beneficiaries, including women (50%) and youth (70%), with the goal of improving productivity, market access, and community resilience.

Representing the Ministry of Agriculture, Evans Kenyi Solomon, Technical Adviser, said cooperatives will play a central role in driving rural growth. “Youth and women empowerment is not a side agenda—it is the engine that drives peace, prosperity, and resilience in this country,” he said, calling cooperatives the bridge linking farmers to inputs, markets, and finance.

Cooperative Bank Managing Director Elijah Wamalwa said the deal crowns years of preparation. “A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step,” he said. The bank plans to expand rural credit schemes, roll out agency banking, and introduce a new mobile-based financial platform to reach remote communities. “We want a future where a farmer in Nimule or Torit can access credit as easily as someone in Juba,” he added.

UNDP Deputy Representative Ligane Sene highlighted the project’s role in diversifying the oil-dependent economy and reducing food imports. He said cooperative groups can boost production through economies of scale and support South Sudan’s transition toward a cashless economy.

The READ project will operate in Aweil, Renk, Nzara, Yambio, Maridi, Terekeka, and Magwi.

16/11/2025

Health Leaders Call for Greater Investment and Emergency Reform at AGOSS Scientific Conference

November 16, 2025 – Juba, South Sudan

Senior policymakers, health professionals, and medical associations closed the 4th Annual Scientific Conference of the Association of Gynecologists and Obstetricians of South Sudan (AGOSS) with strong calls for improved health financing, emergency care reforms, the protection of medical workers, and greater professional collaboration.

Held at the Pyramid Hotel in Juba, the conference brought together specialists from across South Sudan and regional delegates from Kenya, Ethiopia, and Rwanda. The event highlighted the growing scientific visibility of AGOSS and the urgent need to strengthen maternal, neonatal, and reproductive health systems.

AGOSS President Dr. Zakaria praised the association’s expanding influence and partnerships with global medical bodies, UN agencies, and universities. He emphasized that AGOSS continues to play a central role in maternal health research, guideline development, and capacity building across the country.

Chairperson of the TNLA Health Committee, Hon. Dr. Benjamin Malek, called for increased investment in hospitals and emergency response systems. He warned that despite the presence of skilled professionals, health facilities lack basic supplies, forcing patients to buy consumables during critical moments. He also raised concerns about the arrest and harassment of doctors due to a lack of medico-legal clarity, urging the establishment of a national forum between parliament, the judiciary, and medical associations.

Rev. Janet Michael, Director General for Nurses and Midwives, expressed concern over the poor quality of care in both public and private facilities despite rising numbers of trained personnel. She urged medical staff to change attitudes toward emergencies, noting that delays in treating bleeding mothers have led to preventable deaths. “We must act fast and recognize danger,” she said, appealing for improved commitment and accountability.

One of the strongest appeals came from Dr. Adut Jervase, Deputy Chairperson of the South Sudan Doctors’ Union (SSDU). She praised AGOSS for elevating South Sudan’s scientific profile but warned that professionals cannot provide quality services without essential tools and supplies. She also highlighted a major concern: many frontline health workers have gone four months without receiving their incentives, calling it a crisis that must be urgently addressed. As the country prepares its new national budget, she urged parliament to align health financing with the Abuja Declaration and prioritize the welfare of medical personnel.

The conference ended with renewed commitment to scientific collaboration, strengthening emergency care, and advancing maternal health reforms across South Sudan.

26/10/2025

🌿💧 Clean Water and Green Initiative Transform Hai Jedid and Neighbouring Communities

In Hai Jedid Block A, Wau North Payam, residents are celebrating a new dawn in access to clean water and community-led environmental initiatives improving livelihoods and resilience.

Thanks to the Enhancing Community Resilience and Local Governance Project Phase II (ECRP II) implemented by the Government of South Sudan in partnership with IOM the community has established a water yard and launched a green initiative to grow vegetables and mango seedlings. 🌱

“This project has helped reduce water shortages and given us hope to improve our livelihoods,” said Manyang Mayom, Secretary General of the Boma Community Development Committee.

Women’s groups now generate income through vegetable sales and mango seedlings — making Hai Jedid greener and more self-reliant. 🌾

Neighbouring communities like Biringi and Jebel Andiya have also benefited, though many still appeal for more boreholes to meet growing needs.

Municipal CEO Julio Emmanuel Mama urged residents to protect and maintain the facilities, saying:

“If the community doesn’t take care of these facilities and they break down, they will be accountable not just the Government.”

💧 Together, the Government, IOM, and local communities are proving that sustainable partnerships can drive resilience, empowerment, and environmental restoration across South Sudan. 🇸🇸

20/10/2025

New Health Facilities Bring Hope to Wau Communities

Residents of Wau Municipality, Western Bahr el Ghazal State, are celebrating better access to healthcare after the Government of South Sudan, through the Enhancing Community Resilience and Local Governance Project Phase II (ECRP II) funded by the World Bank, completed two modern Primary Health Care Units (PHCUs) in Kaabi (Blessilia Payam) and Hai Dinka (Wau Northern Payam).

Each facility includes maternity wards, boreholes, latrines, and perimeter fencing ensuring safe, clean, and reliable care for families.

“Before, we rode 40 minutes to Wau town whenever someone was sick. Now, we receive care right here in our community,” said Christine Joseph, a resident of Blessed Payam.

The project aims to reach nearly one million people across 79 counties in South Sudan, strengthening health access and community resilience.

Local leaders and residents hailed the initiative as a lifeline for mothers and children marking a major step toward improving healthcare in rural areas

04/08/2025

South Sudan’s Silent Crisis: When a Nation Turns Against Its Own Builders

The Unjust Detention of Akol E. Ayii Signals a Dangerous Precedent

In fragile nations, progress depends on a few brave individuals — people who choose to invest in hope instead of fear, who stay when others flee, and who build when the system seems broken.

In South Sudan, Akol E. Ayii is one of those individuals.

He is not a politician.
He is not a war profiteer.
He is a builder — a patriot who invested his own money, vision, and commitment into rebuilding his country from the ground up.

Today, he sits in detention.
Without charge.
Without transparency.
Without justice.

This is more than a personal tragedy.
This is a national warning: South Sudan is turning against the very people who are working to save it.

Akol E. Ayii chose the difficult road. He could have moved his wealth abroad, chased comfort elsewhere. Instead, he stayed. He invested. He hired. He gave back.

His legacy speaks for itself:

Electrified Wau, stimulating trade, education, and household welfare.

Employed over 300 South Sudanese directly, and thousands more through indirect job creation.

Supported Juba Teaching Hospital, enhancing critical care services.

Funded education by paying school fees for children across the country.

Backed vulnerable groups, including women-led businesses and mothers of triplets, offering medical coverage and monthly stipends.

This is not someone who looted the state.
This is someone who built what the state had failed to deliver.

Now he is detained — and no one will explain why.

Where is the due process?
Where is the transparency?
Where is the justice for someone who gave so much to his country?

The family of Akol E. Ayii has broken their silence.
They are calling on the leadership — from the President to the judiciary — to release him immediately or publicly explain the legal basis for his detention.

This silence is not just an insult to Akol E. Ayii.
It is an insult to every citizen trying to succeed honestly, legally, and without political protection.

If builders like Akol E. Ayii are not safe, who is?

If we do not defend those who create opportunity, who will remain to build our future?

This is a moment of reckoning.

We must choose what kind of South Sudan we want to be:
One that rewards courage and enterprise — or one that destroys its own foundation out of fear, jealousy, and silence.

The people are watching.
And history will remember who stood up — and who stayed quiet.

MCK RADIO

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