Africa-Press – South-Sudan. Eastern Equatoria State (EES) and Jonglei on Sunday joined the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day of Peace, with leaders and communities in both states calling for unity, reconciliation, and collective efforts to end cycles of conflict and foster development in South Sudan.
Eastern Equatoria State Governor Louis Lobong used a live radio program on UN Radio Miraya to urge communities to embrace peace and reconciliation despite ongoing conflicts and economic hardships. He acknowledged recurrent clashes involving cattle herders from Jonglei and the Murle community, which have fueled tensions in the state.
“I want to make it clear that our state does not have a problem with people living here from other states. The real issue is with cattle keepers whose animals destroy farms, and that’s what frustrates our farmers,” Lobong said. “As we celebrate peace, let us understand that people can coexist anywhere in this country.”
The governor further praised security agencies in Nimule for convincing youths to surrender more than 400 firearms last week, calling it a positive step toward stability. He also urged parents to instil values of honesty in children, particularly discouraging the use of stolen goods.
Residents who phoned into the radio program echoed the governor’s message, calling for stronger peace initiatives. Lobong concluded by urging South Sudanese to forgive one another and see diversity as a strength, saying, “Enough is enough. Let us live as brothers and sisters.”
Meanwhile, in Bor, Jonglei State leaders marked the day under the theme “Action for a Peaceful Jonglei”, aligning with the global call to “Act Now for a Peaceful World.” The event brought together government officials, civil society groups, women, youth, and internally displaced persons.
Simon Hoth Duol, the State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement, said peace in Jonglei was central to peace across South Sudan. “If Jonglei is peaceful, the entire country will be peaceful. We are determined to ensure sustainable peace in Jonglei. Hence, all hands must be on deck to promote peace and coexistence,” he stated.
Nyalele John, the State Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, linked peace to development, urging stakeholders to prioritise dialogue and reconciliation. “Peace is a prerequisite for development. All stakeholders must champion peace to make Jonglei State, and South Sudan at large, a haven for all,” she said.
Civil society also played a key role in the commemoration. Bol Deng Bol, Executive Director of INTREPID South Sudan, reminded participants that peace requires sustained action. He called for legislation to support youth and women’s enterprise funds, arguing that empowering communities economically was critical to building lasting peace. He further urged the expansion of civic space, saying, “Civil society and the media are the mirror and ears of the government.”
The Bor event was organised by INTREPID South Sudan with support from the Norwegian People’s Aid, in partnership with the Jonglei State government.
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