The South Sudan Veterans Association has urged the government to support efforts to document and preserve the nation’s history for future generations.

The call followed a meeting in Juba on Wednesday between association leaders, led by Maj. Gen. William Deng Garang, Minister of Interior Gen. Aleu Ayieny Aleu, and Deputy Minister of Interior Gen. Mangar Buong.

A statement issued after the meeting noted that discussions centered on veteran welfare, national unity, and ways to strengthen cooperation between the Ministry of Interior and the association on security and peacebuilding efforts.

Maj. Gen. William Deng Garang stated that recording the liberation struggle remains essential for educating youth and recognizing veteran sacrifices.

Minister of Interior Gen. Aleu Ayieny Aleu welcomed the establishment of the association, stating that the visit marked the beginning of structured engagement with the veterans’ movement.

He affirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with the group on national development initiatives.

The association plans to visit states and counties to meet local chiefs and veterans at the community level.

The meeting follows recent government engagements with Maj. Gen. Deng. On May 16, during the 43rd anniversary of the SPLM/SPLA in Juba, President Salva Kiir publicly recognized Maj. Gen. Deng among the crowd, citing their wartime history during the liberation struggle.

President Kiir subsequently met with Maj. Gen. Deng at the State Secretariat to discuss liberation history and veteran welfare. Following the request for support regarding an eye condition and transport, President Kiir provided Maj. Gen. Deng with $100,000 for medical expenses and a vehicle.

Both the Ministry of Interior and the Veterans Association agreed to maintain coordination to address veteran welfare concerns and support national integration efforts across South Sudan.