Institutional Processes in the Integration of Militia Groups into the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces

This study examines institutional processes involved in the integration of militia groups into the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), with particular focus on screening, training, deployment, and command harmonization. The study is grounded in Security Sector Reform (SSR) and Post-Conflict Reconstruction (PCR) frameworks, which emphasize the transformation of fragmented armed actors into professional national forces through structured institutional reform. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, involving 383 respondents drawn from integrated ex-combatants, SSPDF officers, and policy implementers. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were examined thematically to capture experiential and contextual insights. Findings indicate that institutional processes of integration exist within the SSPDF but are unevenly implemented. Screening procedures were generally perceived as adequate (56%) or very thorough (25%), although gaps allowed individuals with unresolved factional affiliations to be integrated. Training processes were partially implemented, with only 37.5% of respondents reporting full military training, while others received refresher or orientation-only instruction. Policy communication was inconsistent, with 18.7% of respondents indicating unclear or absent communication of integration directives. Deployment and command harmonization were moderately effective but constrained by weak coordination and residual loyalty structures. The study concludes that while institutional mechanisms for militia integration are established within the SSPDF, their inconsistent application limits full operational cohesion and professionalization. It recommends standardized screening procedures, uniform training programs, improved policy communication, and strengthened command harmonization to enhance integration outcomes and institutional effectiveness.