Major General Ganesh Kumar Shrestha of Nepal assumes leadership of UNISFA

UNISFA provides security and stability in the disputed territory of Abyei while supporting dialogue for long-term peace.

The resource-rich territory of Abyei has long seen disputes over its control. In 2011, as South Sudan approached independence from Sudan, it became a flashpoint for violence and mass displacement.

In response to the escalating insecurity, UNISFA was established to help monitor the withdrawal of Sudanese and South Sudanese forces from the territory and to support dialogue between the two countries so they can find a political resolution on the status of Abyei and restore peace and stability along their disputed border.

In the interim, the mission is working to protect civilians in the volatile territory and maintain it as a demilitarized zone. It is also working to foster reconciliation between communities, address the root causes of conflict, support community-based law-and-order efforts, and facilitate humanitarian assistance to ease immediate threats and suffering.