, aims to enhance media capacity in South Sudan, ensuring better access to information before and after the country’s 2026 general elections.){kind=link}
By Otto Abut
UNESCO and its partner Ministry of Information, and Communication have launched a $2.5 million media development project funded by Japan. The initiative, supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), aims to enhance media capacity in South Sudan, ensuring better access to information before and after the country’s 2026 general elections.
The project focuses on strengthening mass media by establishing an autonomous public broadcaster, improving journalists’ understanding of local legal frameworks—such as the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation Act of 2013—and equipping them with skills necessary for election coverage.
The Minister of Information, Communication Technology, and Postal Services, Michael Makuei Lueth, expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan and its partners, assuring them of smooth implementation.
“We appreciate the Government of Japan, JICA, and UNESCO for this initiative. We assure them that we will ensure the successful implementation of this project without any obstruction.”
He further stated that the program includes training journalists in preparation for the 2026 elections, strengthening the information sector, and supporting the development of media houses across South Sudan.
Japanese Ambassador to South Sudan, Odagiri Toshio, emphasized that the project aligns with Japan’s broader commitment to promoting democratic governance, freedom of expression, and access to information.
“I’m proud of Japan’s financial contribution to this project, which is being implemented jointly by UNESCO and JICA, with strong leadership and commitment from the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology, and Postal Services.”
The ambassador also called on South Sudan to accelerate efforts in addressing key electoral challenges, including funding necessary institutions such as the National Elections Commission (NEC), the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC), and the Political Parties Council (PPC), as well as forming a unified security force to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
UNESCO Country Representative, Julius Banda, highlighted the need to improve broadcasting infrastructure, particularly in underserved regions. He pointed to Malakal and Yambio as areas requiring urgent investment to enhance communication and media functionality.
The launch event was attended by state ministers of information from across South Sudan, including representatives from Bahr el Ghazal, Upper Nile, and Terekeka County in Central Equatoria State.
This initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening South Sudan’s media landscape, ensuring citizens receive accurate and timely information as the country prepares for its first general elections since independence.