LocationsStrengthening Partnerships for South Sudan's Development Future
June 29, 2026
UNDP South Sudan team meets the UNITAR team
In May 2026, a high-level UNDP South Sudan delegation undertook a strategic mission to Geneva, Switzerland, to advance development cooperation, strengthen resource mobilization efforts, and forge innovative partnerships in support of South Sudan's development priorities.
At a time when the country continues to face significant political, economic, and humanitarian challenges, the mission reinforced a clear and urgent message: development cannot wait.
During the visit, the delegation engaged with key partners, including the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), the Global Fund, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the United Nations Office at Geneva, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the Embassy of South Sudan in Switzerland. These engagements focused on deepening collaboration and identifying opportunities to support South Sudan's path toward peace, resilience, and sustainable development.
Former Executive Director for the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and UNDP South Sudan Resident Representative
A major outcome of the mission was the development of a joint UNDP–UNITAR Priority Action Plan centered on four key areas:
• Inclusive dialogue and mediation
• Election preparedness
• Security, rule of law, and justice
• Increased participation of women and youth in peacebuilding
UNDP South Sudan Team in a meeting with GAVI Vaccine Alliance team
The mission also provided an important platform for discussions with global health partners. As global financing continues to shrink, the conversations underscored the need for greater integration, efficiency, sustainability, and national ownership of health systems. UNDP South Sudan highlighted its leadership in strengthening HIV and TB responses, as well as broader health systems, while advocating for continued investments that save lives and build resilience.
Dr. Mohammed Abchir Resident Representative UNDP South Sudan at the global UN media briefing platform
UNDP South Sudan team led by the Dr. Mohammed Abchir Resident Representative in a meeting with the Global Fund team
Through the global UN media briefing platform, the Resident Representative – Dr. Mohamed Abchir, who was heading the delegation showcased UNDP's contributions across several areas, including peacebuilding, governance reform, community violence reduction, climate resilience, durable solutions, and public financial management, HIV/TB services delivery and health systems strengthening. Partners acknowledged the importance of sustained engagement in South Sudan and the value of investing in national institutions capable of driving long-term development outcomes.
Dr. Mohammed Abchir Resident Representative UNDP South Sudan meeting the South Sudan Ambassador
Throughout the mission, UNDP emphasized that supporting South Sudan's transition requires strong partnerships, constructive dialogue, and sustained investments that strengthen local capacities and expand opportunities for communities across the country.
As South Sudan prepares for the next phase of its development journey beyond transition, UNDP remains committed to working alongside government, communities, development partners, and international institutions to advance peace, resilience, and sustainable development for all.
