TORIT - With ambushes and attacks on highways fueling insecurity in Eastern Equatoria, this year’s International Peace Day celebrations were profoundly significant for local communities, leaders, and stakeholders.

It was an opportunity to unite, embrace both personal responsibility and a collective commitment to lasting peace as the community launched a Peace Begins with Me campaign.

“The theme of this special day – Act Now for Peace – is a call for all of us to play our parts, by speaking out against violence, hate, discrimination, inequality, promote and practicing respect for others, because peace begins with me, with you and with all of us,” said Guy Griffin, Head of the peacekeeping mission’s Field Office in Torit.

The celebration brought together people from all walks of life and diverse communities with a vibrant display of traditional, modern, and cultural songs and dances, ensuring that no one was left behind.

Thousands of participants - children, students, youth, and the elderly - joined the event, and marched in a colorful procession to Freedom Square, proudly led by tricycles ridden by people with disabilities.

Although residents of Eastern Equatoria are proud that their State is relatively peaceful, speakers at the event emphasized the need for everyone to work together to safeguard it, for it to endure.

Youth Union leader Oriaja James reflected on the “Act Now for Peace” theme, urging all South Sudanese to consider their role in the nation’s peace process.

"For peace to prevail, we must end corruption, tribalism, nepotism, and segregation. We need to view ourselves as one people,” said James, stressing that action must replace words.

Ikoi Mary, a representative from the Eastern Equatoria Girls Forum, reminded those gathered of the cost of the conflict, recalling how violence has destroyed families, disrupted education, and dashed dreams.

“Young people have an important role in building lasting peace,” she said, as they can choose dialogue over violence, inclusion over division, and reconciliation over revenge.

Mary also underscored the importance of empowering women and girls, not only as beneficiaries but as leaders and decision-makers in peacebuilding efforts.

Charles Udwar Ukech, a representative of the State Governor, spoke about the devastating impact of violence on communities, noting that the aspirations for South Sudan’s independence and sovereignty would remain unfulfilled without peace. He addressed the rise in gang activity in parts of the state and the growing attempts to mobilize youth for violence.

“These youth are not enemies of peace,” said Ukech. “They are children whose mentorship has failed at the family and community levels.”

He urged parents and community leaders to take responsibility for guiding the next generation toward becoming responsible citizens and future leaders.

The Governor’s remarks underscored the state government’s efforts, in collaboration with the national government, local authorities, UNMISS, and other development partners, to prevent conflict before it escalates, resolve disputes peacefully, and prioritize dialogue as the first and best approach to resolving disagreements.