(KAMPALA) – The Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services of South Sudan has signed a three year agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to support media development, freedom of expression, and access to information across the country. The signing took place on Tuesday 19 August 2025 in Kampala, Uganda.
Mawien Bulabek, Undersecretary for Information, said the project will provide funding and technical support to help disseminate the peace agreement and enhance media coverage of the upcoming national elections.
The initiative will include capacity building and provision of essential media equipment to strengthen the Republic of South Sudan’s information sector. The project is scheduled to begin in November 2025.
Hashimoto Keiichi, JICA senior advisor for peace building and governance, highlighted that the cooperation extends beyond government institutions to private media outlets.
He said the programme will equip media professionals with the necessary tools and training to ensure responsible and effective coverage during the elections.
Officials present at the signing included Victor Bullen Baba, Director General of Information, Oyet Patrick, President of the Union of South Sudan Journalists, and Aya Irene, Chairperson of AMDISS.
| Project Component | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Media Equipment | Provide infrastructure for media outlets | 3 years |
| Capacity Building | Train journalists and media staff | 3 years |
| Peace Dissemination | Support coverage of peace agreement | 3 years |
| Election Coverage | Improve information access during elections | 3 years |
The initiative is expected to improve public access to reliable information, strengthen media professionalism, and support peaceful civic engagement in the lead up to South Sudan’s national elections.
