In a collaborative effort and with the goal of strengthening field security communications, {TESS+} went on a mission to South Sudan to conduct a comprehensive review of its Security Communications Systems (SCS).
John Bursa, {TESS+} Senior IT Emergency Coordinator worked alongside United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) and & United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS) field teams to assess the current state of its SCS and identify gaps, recommend improvements, and initiate the planned rollout of a Remote Security Operations Centre (RSOC) solution in early 2026. He visited sites in Juba, Bor, and Bentiu.
With South Sudan facing ongoing security challenges, robust communication systems meeting UN standards are critical to ensuring the safety of UN personnel and the effectiveness of operations. This mission reflects the UN and {TESS+}’s commitment to proactive risk management and operational excellence in volatile environments. The mission will also foster stronger inter-agency coordination, enabling UNDSS and UNMISS to operate more cohesively in the field.
The mission also included debriefings with key personnel—including the Mongolian Battalion commander, security personnel, and the Indian Signals Troop commander—and close collaboration with military contingents under UNMISS.
The deployment highlighted how integrating various communications systems—TETRA, analogue, digital mobile radio (DMR), and digital private mobile radio (dPMR)—can significantly enhance UNSMS personnel safety and security in the field. It also provided an opportunity for {TESS+} to support updates to the Security Risk Management process and implement the recommendation to shift the primary SCS in Juba from radio to mobile phone, improving operational efficiency and responsiveness.
Essien Idim, Chief of Operations at UNDSS in Juba, says that the mission has “significantly benefited UNDSS, providing valuable insights and recommendations that are already shaping our strategic security communication system thinking in the country.”
Once recommendations for the deployment of an RSOC solution are approved for early 2026, Idim says this will:
“form a solid foundation for the implementation of the RSOC in South Sudan. This would mark a major step forward in enhancing our operational coordination and security communications support mechanisms.”
This mission was a vital step toward safeguarding personnel and enhancing the UN’s ability to fulfill its mandate in South Sudan. The mission not only addressed current operational gaps but will also set the stage for future innovations in security communications across UN field operations.
Stay tuned for updates as outcomes from this mission unfold and contribute to a safer, more connected UN presence in South Sudan.
{TESS+} Telecommunications Security Standards 