UNSC in session - file picture

The head of the UN Mission in the country, Ellen Margrethe Løej, says the visit of the UN Security Council delegation to Juba today is an opportunity to see firsthand, the situation in the country.

The delegation is expected to arrive in Juba this evening.

The visit follows the UN Security Council’s approval last month, of a 4,000 strong foreign protection force to be deployed in Juba.

The force is mandated to work under UNMISS and use all means to protect key installations such as the airport, and effectively engage those preparing for attacks, or indeed attacking UN premises or civilians.

While in Juba, the delegation is expected to engage the Transitional Government of National Unity on the implementation of the peace agreement.

Eye Radio spoke to some residents of Juba about their expectations from the visit.

“We want them to come and talk to our government to bring peace so that people can rest. Killing every day is not the solution to the conflict in South Sudan,” said a Mr Charles.

“They have been talking of protection force to deployed, let them bring the force to protect civilian,” said another Juba resident.

“We are really tired of war. The UNSC should tell the two leaders to stop fighting; many people are dying, all roads are blocked and there are a lot of attacks on the roads. We want them to bring peace.”

In an interview with UN Media, Ms. Løej said the team will also hold talks with the government on the challenges the UN is facing in providing necessary support for the mission’s mandate.

Ms Løej says members of the delegation will also interact with other stakeholders in the country, including the civil society, women’s groups and IDPs in the UN Protection of Civilian’ sites, among others