Japan and JICA Support Mine Action Capacity Building in South Sudan
Tokyo, Japan – August 22, 2025 – The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) announced today the signing of a grant agreement for a project to enhance mine action capabilities in South Sudan. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), aims to bolster South Sudan’s capacity to address the persistent threat of landmines and explosive remnants of war.
South Sudan, a nation that has endured decades of conflict, continues to grapple with the devastating legacy of landmines and other explosive hazards. These dangerous remnants pose a significant threat to the safety and security of its citizens, hindering reconstruction efforts, impeding the return of displaced populations, and restricting access to essential services and economic opportunities.
Recognizing the critical need for robust mine action programs, Japan, through JICA, is providing crucial financial assistance to support UNMAS in its vital work on the ground. The grant agreement formalizes this commitment and will facilitate the implementation of a comprehensive program designed to strengthen South Sudan’s national mine action capacity.
The project will focus on several key areas, including:
- Capacity Building for National Authorities: The initiative will provide technical expertise and training to South Sudanese personnel involved in mine action. This includes enhancing the skills of national operators in survey, clearance, risk education, and victim assistance. The ultimate goal is to empower South Sudan to independently manage and conduct mine action operations in the future.
- Equipment and Resource Support: JICA’s contribution will also involve the provision of essential equipment and resources required for effective mine action. This may include specialized machinery, protective gear for clearance teams, and communication systems to ensure the safety and efficiency of operations.
- Strengthening Coordination and Information Management: The project will support the enhancement of coordination mechanisms among various stakeholders involved in mine action in South Sudan. This includes improving data collection, analysis, and information sharing to ensure that resources are deployed effectively and that clearance priorities are aligned with national development needs.
- Community Engagement and Risk Education: A critical component of the program involves strengthening community-based risk education initiatives. By raising awareness among the population, particularly in affected areas, about the dangers of explosive hazards and safe practices, the project aims to prevent accidents and save lives.
JICA’s partnership with UNMAS is a testament to the shared commitment of both organizations to fostering peace, stability, and sustainable development in South Sudan. UNMAS, with its extensive experience and global reach in mine action, is a trusted partner in this endeavor.
Speaking on the occasion, a JICA representative expressed optimism about the project’s potential impact. “Japan is deeply committed to supporting South Sudan’s journey towards recovery and prosperity. We understand the profound impact that landmines have on the lives of ordinary people and the development of the nation. Through this collaboration with UNMAS, we are confident that we can make a tangible difference in making South Sudan a safer place for its citizens.”
The signing of this grant agreement marks a significant step forward in Japan’s ongoing support for South Sudan. By investing in mine action capacity, Japan is not only addressing a pressing humanitarian concern but also contributing to the long-term stability and socio-economic progress of the country. This initiative underscores Japan’s dedication to its foreign policy principles of promoting peace, stability, and human security in vulnerable regions worldwide.
南スーダン向け無償資金協力贈与契約の締結：国連地雷対策サービス部との連携により、地雷対策能力の向上を支援
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国際協力機構 published ‘南スーダン向け無償資金協力贈与契約の締結：国連地雷対策サービス部との連携により、地雷対策能力の向上を支援’ at 2025-08-22 00:57. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.