In an exclusive interview with Radio Tamazuj, Norway’s Ambassador to South Sudan, Linken Nymann Berryman, provided insights into the deep-rooted relationship between the two nations, spanning over five decades.
The conversation delved into Norway’s advocacy for the peace agreement’s implementation, initiatives in poverty alleviation, and the challenges South Sudan faces in preparing for credible elections.
She also emphasized the importance of independent media, funding for development projects, and offered valuable perspectives on the path to sustainable peace and prosperity in South Sudan.
Below are edited excerpts:
Q: Ambassador Linken, how would you characterize the relationship between South Sudan and Norway?
A: The relationship between South Sudan and Norway is deeply rooted and spans over five decades. Our partnership has evolved through collaborations with organizations such as Norwegian People’s Aid and Norwegian Church Aid, which initiated their efforts in the early 1970s.
This historical context underscores the enduring ties we have cultivated with the people of South Sudan. Our engagement is guided by shared values of freedom, democracy, and human rights.
Q: Norway has been advocating for the implementation of the peace agreement. Have there been any tangible results thus far?
A: Assessing tangible results is challenging due to the significant humanitarian needs prevalent in South Sudan. Norway has long been committed to fostering peace and stability in the region, aligning with our shared values of freedom, democracy, and human rights.
We envision a future where all South Sudanese can benefit from the dividends of peace, allowing children to access quality education and healthcare, and enabling peaceful coexistence in every corner of the country.
However, the implementation of the peace agreement lags significantly behind schedule. The political will required to propel it forward is crucial, especially considering South Sudan’s current preparations for elections. Recently, an important meeting at the UN Security Council shed light on the situation.
The United Nations Secretary-General’s representative emphasized that South Sudan is not adequately prepared for credible elections. Key prerequisites must be addressed, and the parties involved should address the 10 questions and issues presented by AU, UN, and IGAD to bring clarity to the electoral process.
Q: Ambassador Linken, Norway has been actively involved in poverty alleviation efforts. Can you provide examples of successful initiatives and the specific projects Norway is implementing?
A: Certainly. One noteworthy program, in collaboration with the UN Food and Agricultural Organization, focuses on providing life skills training and fishing equipment to communities along the Nile River. This initiative has empowered local farmers to supply fish to markets in Juba. Notably, South Sudan has transitioned from importing fish to now exporting to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This success demonstrates that when communities are given the tools and access to markets, they can significantly improve their lives. Addressing the underutilization of resources is a key aspect of our strategy, encompassing human capital investment, agriculture, education, health, institution strengthening, peace building, and the empowerment of girls and women.
Q: How do you assess the current situation in South Sudan, and what measures can be taken to improve it?
A: The majority of South Sudanese desire and deserve peace, justice, and the opportunity to care for their families, access sufficient food, send their children to good schools, and obtain healthcare services.
Support to women’s participation at all levels in South Sudan has for a long time been one of our trademarks. Empowerment of girls and women is a priority. Women not only play an important role but a critical role maintaining peace and security. Their views must be heard and respected. It is critical to have women present in civic and political spaces. The important work taking place in addressing GBV is very important for the safety of women and girls, not only now but for the future of South Sudan, and for women to play a crucial role in the economic development of South Sudan.
Currently, a substantial portion of the population requires humanitarian assistance. This requires some hard choices to be made by the leaders of South Sudan to provide more of the nation’s resources to humanitarian assistance and to ensure safe delivery of humanitarian aid.
We believe that if the leaders of South Sudan prioritize the utilization of South Sudan’s resources in line with the provisions of the peace agreement, the situation can improve. Transparency and accountability in the management of national revenue are essential, and we advocate for responsible and informed use of the country’s resources.
Q: Ambassador Linken, what role is Norway playing to ensure that the upcoming elections are free, fair, and credible?
A: Norway is actively encouraging the parties to the agreement to prioritize the necessary actions to create conditions for credible elections. The recent discussions at the UN Security Council outlined 10 points that explicitly detail the actions and questions that need to be addressed in preparation for the elections. We consistently emphasize the importance of addressing these issues immediately.
Q: Do you believe that South Sudan is ready for the elections scheduled for next year?
A: South Sudan is currently not in a position to conduct credible elections. The parties to the peace agreement must engage with the 10 points outlined, addressing issues such as opening political and civic spaces, determining voter eligibility, the voting process, and the deployment of properly trained and equipped unified forces. Much work remains, and it is crucial for the parties to come together to address these aspects.
Q: Given the constraints on civic space and media freedoms in South Sudan, how is Norway contributing to ensuring freedom of expression for the South Sudanese people?
A: Recognizing the importance of freedom of expression, Norway consistently advocates for the opening of political and civic spaces. We have collaborated with development partners, such as UNESCO and BBC Media Action, to strengthen the technical capacity of independent media in South Sudan.
This includes supporting radio stations to enhance public access to information and engage with local communities. While freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed, we continue to urge the government to implement media laws, including the Access to Information Act.
Q: There are concerns that South Sudanese media outlets lack sufficient support to carry out their work. What is your reaction to that?
A: We have various programs focused on media training and supporting media in different ways. We believe that having a well-trained and robust media is crucial.
Q: How much funding does Norway provide to South Sudan for development projects annually?
A: Annually, we allocate over eighty million US dollars to South Sudan, and this funding has seen a slight increase each year.
Q: What message would you like to convey to the government, NGOs, and the media fraternity to ensure the diligent execution of their duties?
A: Firstly, I urge the government to implement the peace agreement, with a significant emphasis on expanding political and civil space. We should all strive towards the goals of an open and democratic society where freedom of expression is valued, ensuring a safe environment for discussions, political gatherings, and the work of political parties.
Q: Ambassador Linken, what are your hopes for South Sudan in 2024?
A: In 2024 and beyond, I hope to witness real and sustainable peace, coupled with development across the country, where every citizen can enjoy the dividends of peace. My aspiration is to see a prosperous South Sudan, where citizens can lead happy and secure lives in a democratic society.
Q: There are concerns from political leaders not part of the peace agreement and other opposition groups, requesting a general amnesty. What message would you like to convey to the government of South Sudan?
A: I would advise the government to maintain an ongoing dialogue because dialogue is paramount in the peace-making process.
Q: Finally, what is your final message to the people of South Sudan?
A: I want to convey to the people of South Sudan that your resilience and endurance are remarkable. I encourage everyone to work towards peace and unity. Norway stands by your side and continues to support your efforts for a peaceful and democratic South Sudan, where every citizen can thrive. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
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