UN delegation trains Ghanaian peacekeepers in Abyei on information integrity, strategic communication

Africa

ATHONY, Sudan-South Sudan (NPA) — A delegation from United Nations Headquarters in New York has conducted a training programme on information integrity for personnel of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei Ghana Battalion Four (GHANBATT 4), aimed at strengthening peacekeeping operations in the disputed Abyei region.

According to a statement issued on April 30, 2026, by the Department of Public Relations of the Ghana Armed Forces, the training was held on Wednesday at the Battalion Headquarters in Sector South, Athony, in the disputed Abyei region between Sudan and South Sudan, which serves as the headquarters of Sector South for the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) peacekeeping mission.

The three-member UN delegation was led by Naomi Miyashita and focused on the role of information integrity in mandate implementation, as well as its implications for the safety and security of peacekeepers operating in Abyei.

During the session, personnel were briefed on emerging trends within the UN peacekeeping environment, particularly the growing threats posed by misinformation, disinformation and hate speech within local communities.

The delegation also outlined key elements of the UN’s information integrity policy, emphasizing the importance of adopting a multidisciplinary, proactive and people-centered approach to communication in conflict and post-conflict environments.

Facilitators further equipped GHANBATT personnel with practical tools and response mechanisms for managing information-related risks and countering harmful narratives capable of undermining peacekeeping operations.

The training additionally covered core principles of strategic communication, including accuracy, impartiality, operational security and consistency, which officials said were critical to maintaining credibility and public trust during peacekeeping missions.

The session concluded with renewed emphasis on community engagement, with the UN delegation stressing that building trust and fostering open communication with local populations remain essential to improving mission effectiveness and sustaining peace in Abyei.