FY 2016 Annual Report/ Viable Support to Transition and Stability (VISTAS)

The program aimed to provide stability and support to the government and people of South Sudan. However, the highly contentious implementation of ARCISS led to a deepening chasm between the signatories, and the conflict escalated into previously unaffected parts of South Sudan. The economy of South Sudan was severely affected, with inflation rising by over 600% during the fiscal year. The country faced severe food shortages, with an estimated 4.8 million South Sudanese affected. The controversial announcement of 28 states was seen as a signal for furthering the conflict. Despite the return of the advance group of the Sudan People's Liberation in Opposition (IO) party to Juba in January 2016, peace was short-lived, and a three-day gun battle broke out in July, resulting in the eviction of the IO leader and forces. The VISTAS program cleared 114 activities, valued at approximately $10,623,022, during the fiscal year. However, the program faced significant challenges, including ongoing conflict, high levels of violence, and a near collapse of the economy. The relocation of staff to Nairobi due to the security situation in Juba created further constraints. In Northern Bahr El Ghazal, VISTAS continued to support traditional courts to address inter-communal violence. In Unity, the program worked across citizens in conflict within the Protection of Civilian Site (POC) in Bentiu and in Panyijuar County. In Upper Nile, VISTAS became a key factor in humanitarian and peacekeeping efforts, improving relationships between different ethnic groups within the POC and beyond. The Jonglei region saw significant involvement in traditional authorities and construction of cattle-related infrastructure. In Juba, the program developed trauma awareness materials and completed a pilot project in selected sites across the country. However, trust in the agreement continued to wane throughout the fiscal year. The VISTAS program focused on supporting the implementation of ARCISS, but the conflict escalated, and the program faced significant challenges. The program's efforts were hindered by the relocation of staff to Nairobi due to the security situation in Juba. The program's expansion and capacity-building efforts were affected by the ongoing conflict and economic instability. The program's focus shifted to supporting humanitarian and peacekeeping efforts in the Upper Nile region. VISTAS became a key factor in improving relationships between different ethnic groups within the POC and beyond. The program's efforts were hindered by the lack of implementation of key elements of the peace deal, including demilitarization of Juba by the government. The VISTAS program's activities were valued at approximately $10,623,022, with an average size of $73,771. The program's funds were disbursed in the amount of $7,317,024. The program's efforts were focused on supporting the implementation of ARCISS, but the conflict escalated, and the program faced significant challenges. The program's activities were valued at approximately $10,623,022, with an average size of $73,771. The program's funds were disbursed in the amount of $7,317,024. The program's