Juba, South Sudan – In a significant boost to press freedom and professional journalism in South Sudan, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) officially launched a donation of essential media equipment at a ceremony held at the AMDISS Center in Juba.
The event, attended by representatives from the Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS), the National Press Club of South Sudan (NPC-SS), and the Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS), marked a milestone in efforts to strengthen the country’s media landscape.
Speaking at the launch, Maura Ajak, RSF’s Coordinator in South Sudan, emphasized that access to free and reliable information is not a privilege but a fundamental human right. “It is the bedrock upon which informed societies are built, allowing citizens to understand their world, hold power to account, and shape their own futures,” she said, referencing Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The donation includes cameras, audio recorders, and other vital tools aimed at enhancing the capacity of journalists working in often challenging environments. According to Ajak, the initiative is a tangible expression of RSF’s long-standing commitment to defending press freedom and supporting journalists on the frontlines.
“For nearly four decades, RSF has worked globally to defend the freedom, pluralism, and independence of journalism,” she noted. “This project is a powerful testament to the strength of collaboration.”
The equipment will be managed through a loan system coordinated by AMDISS, NPC-SS, and UJOSS, ensuring that journalists across the country—especially those in underserved areas—can access the tools they need to produce high-quality, independent reporting.
Ajak praised the dedication of local partners in implementing the project and expressed optimism about the stories that will emerge from this support. “We are excited to see the stories you will tell with these tools—stories that will contribute to a more resilient, vibrant, and trustworthy media landscape in South Sudan,” she said.
The launch underscores RSF’s readiness to continue working alongside South Sudanese media stakeholders to promote a free, safe, and professional press environment.