20 February 2015 - Aiming to promote peace and encourage ways of resolving conflict through dialogue among people in Jonglei State, UNMISS today concluded a workshop in the capital Bor.

Over 40 participants from different ethnicities in the state attended the three-day forum on peace management.
Comprising representatives from the government, youth groups and civil society, attendees also learned about the role of UNMISS.

UNMISS State Coordinator Hazel de Wet said it was vital for participants to voice opinions about the mission’s mandate and also share with trainers how dialogue can achieve lasting peace in the state.

Ms. De Wat explained that feedback from participants was important, as it would help mission officials better understand people’s feelings and find solutions to problems in communities.

“It is important that after this kind of environment and forum, you will be able to help us explain to you, but also you will be able to explain to the broader communities outside what is expected of UNMISS,” she added.

Daniel Omot, from the Anwak community, said national and state governments should organize a joint peace conference, which would involve displaced people in UNMISS bases, in assisting communities to co-exist in the state.

“The previous peace conferences have not been successful because they were politicized,” he said. “If there is to be peace in Jonglei, the two governments should organize a big peace conference that involves everybody.”

The acting chairperson of the Jonglei Women’s Association, Sarah James, expressed concern about people’s failure to practice peace messages communicated to them.

“Many times, people talk of peace, but it is not being taken seriously,” said Ms. James. “We should practice what we learn and make use of it, not just talk about peace without implementation.”

Jacob Kuany, a representative of the state’s youth union, said it was vital that UNMISS was protecting civilians during the ongoing crisis in the country.

“In December 2013, I personally went to UNMISS and I was there for eight days (and) I came out when government forces captured Bor,” he said. “UNMISS should continue to assist the people of South Sudan who are (facing) threats or danger.”