Hundreds turned out to celebrate the 2016 International Day of Peace with the communities of Jiir and Amongpiny, two communities have had cycles of intercommunal conflict for the past eight years, in Rumbek. The event was marked with speeches, drama, singing and track and field events.

During his remarks, Abraham Makoi Bol Kodi, State Governor, thanked the two communities for choosing peace over conflict. He stated that agreeing to live in peace is one thing different from implementing it.

“I am indeed very happy today to see the two communities coming together to celebrate peace. Thank you very much for setting an example to other warring communities in the state. Now, what remains, is the challenge of implementation…you have to remain true to yourself,” Makoi disclosed.

Mr. Chol Kuotwel Manhom, Chief Negotiator and Deputy Speaker of Western Lakes Legislative Assembly, thanked the UNMISS and other humanitarian actors for their support.  He challenged the Jiir and Amongpiny communities to feel proud for taking part in the global celebration of the International Day of Peace.

“I would like to thank in a very special way the UNMISS and other peace actors for their support. Without them, this day would not have been so colorful like this. The communities of Jiir and Amongpiny should feel greatly honored for having this International Day of Peace fully dedicated them,” Kuotwel emphasized.

The acting Head of Field Office, Mr. Timothy Hudner, thanked the government and the communities for cooperating with the UNMISS.