South Sudan’s Ministry of Interior on Thursday launched the Joint Operations Center (JOC) in Juba to promote coordination among the multiple security forces within Juba.

Chapter II of the 2015 peace deal provides for the joint operations centre to be established as a mechanism to ensure coordination of the security forces operating in the capital.

The centre has received more than $2 million USD from the US government for its construction, maintenance, and training support.

The joint operations centre include representatives from the South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS), the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA), the National Security Service (NSS), the Presidential and Vice Presidential Guards, the Prison Services, the Fire Services, the Wildlife Services, the Jubek State Police, and the United Nations Mission to South Sudan (UNMISS), among others.

South Sudan’s Defense Minister Kuol Manyang said Juba city is witnessing a surge of crime due to lack of electricity and good roads. He pointed out that the centre will reduce crime rates.

The Minister of Interior Michael Chiengjiek said the new centre will provide a good security environment to Juba residents.

“The coordination will be easy and our people will have access to the police and to the security services on the ground,” he said.

Speaking during the event, US Ambassador Molly Phee said, “We are proud to have partnered with the Ministry of Interior and the South Sudan National Police Service to establish the JOC.”

She pointed out that the Center will play an important role in promoting security in Juba by fostering cooperation among security elements operating in the city.