A New Dawn for Southern Unity: Hope Rekindled Through Area-Based Programming

In the heart of one of South Sudan’s most conflict-affected regions, a new chapter is unfolding. The Southern Unity Area-Based Programme (ABP) has not only been launched—it has inspired a wave of hope across national, state, and local communities that have long awaited tangible signs of peace, stability, and development.

An initiative of the United Nations Multi-Partner Trust Fund for Reconciliation, Stabilisation and Resilience in South Sudan (RSRTF), the ABP targets conflict hotspots.

From Juba to Bentiu, and deep into the counties of Leer, Mayendit, and Panyijiar, the programme’s inception was met with overwhelming support and participation. But more than the speeches, presentations, and official protocols, it was the expressions of cautious optimism from community members and local leaders that truly defined the moment.

“This programme brings hope to our people,” said a chief in Leer. “We have lived through displacement, hunger, and violence. But today, we feel seen.”

Between 4 and 17 October 2024, the World Relief-led Southern Unity ABP held launch events at national, state, and county levels. Each gathering brought together an average of 60 stakeholders—including government representatives, donors, humanitarian agencies, and community leaders—totaling over 300 participants across five locations.

At each stop, the mood was clear: after years of fragmented aid, insecurity, and neglect, communities are ready to rebuild, but they cannot do it alone.

“Collaboration is not just important; it’s the key to our success,” noted Abiyot Mulugeta, Country Director for World Relief. “Your presence at this event underscores its importance.”

RSRTF Fund Manager Shamira Haider echoed this message: “It is our collective role as peace actors—government, donors, and communities—to make this vision a reality.”

The Southern Unity ABP is designed around the core pillars of reconciliation, stabilisation, and resilience. It aims not only to reduce violence and support peacebuilding, but to strengthen rule of law, enhance civic participation, and unlock long-term development dividends for the most vulnerable populations.

Years of intercommunal conflict, displacement, and natural disasters have left a trail of trauma and broken infrastructure across Unity State. Yet, the programme has already signalled a shift: one where communities are not passive recipients, but co-creators of peace and progress.

A woman leader in Panyijiar put it simply: “We now feel that we have a place at the table. The future is not only in the hands of officials—it’s in our hands too.”

The launch events' inclusive and consultative nature has laid the groundwork for broad-based acceptance of the programme at every level. With active engagement from the Ministry of Peacebuilding, Unity State government, and County leadership, the groundwork has been laid for joint ownership and sustained cooperation.

“We want this programme to succeed—not just for us, but for our children,” said a youth leader in Mayendit. “We want to be remembered as the generation that chose peace.”

While challenges remain, the launch of the Southern Unity ABP has done something remarkable—it has restored belief that transformation is possible. As livelihoods slowly return, children resume schooling, and local leaders begin resolving disputes through dialogue instead of arms, the seeds planted in October 2024 may well bear fruit for years to come.

And in communities long forgotten, hope may be the most powerful intervention of all.