NEW YORK, United States of America, May 13, 2016/APO (African Press Organization)/ —
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Associate Administrator, Tegegnework Gettu landed in Juba, South Sudan today. During his visit, he met with leaders of the Transitional Government of National Unity (TGoNU) and development partners. His visit coincides with the successful formation of the TGoNU on 29 April following the signing of a peace agreement in August 2015.
“I would like to commend the government of South Sudan for their commitment to the Peace Agreement,” said Mr. Gettu on arrival. “UNDP, in close cooperation with other agencies, will continue to support the Transitional Government of National Unity to effectively implement the Peace Agreement and lay the foundation for a peaceful transition to democratic governance, sustainable development, and inclusive growth.” He also encouraged early recovery and reconstruction efforts to complement humanitarian assistance.
Mr. Gettu held discussions with senior government officials, including H.E First Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar, H.E Vice President, James Wani Igga, and Hon. Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, David Deng Athorbei.
Mr. Gettu also met with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, Ellen Margrethe Løj to discuss the collaborative efforts made between UNMISS and UNDP to strengthen the nation’s state-building process.
“Through the Global Focal Point arrangement, UNMISS and UNDP are providing a united front for overall UN assistance to strengthen the rule of law in South Sudan,” said Ms. Løj. “We are working together to improve the areas of police, justice and corrections within the context of the Peace Agreement.”
Mr. Gettu also has a consultation meeting with key donors, including Norway, United States, UK, and Japan, to discuss areas of cooperation between UNDP and international development partners.
Mr. Gettu discussed the need to complement humanitarian efforts with sustainable development interventions with the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in South Sudan, Eugene Owusu.
“The formation of the Transitional Government of National Unity provides ample opportunities for collaborative and transformative engagements to put South Sudan back on the sustainable recovery, peace and development path,” said Mr. Owusu. “At UNDP we strongly believe in the role that development can play in supporting early peace, stability and recovery. The Associate Administrator’s visit emphasizes our commitment to integrating our vision of a stable and prosperous South Sudan with the work of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, agencies, and partners.”
