WESTERN BAHR EL GHAZAL – Preventing conflict isn’t always about military boots on the ground. More often, it’s about building trust and confidence through understanding, empathy, and the collective pursuit of peace.
This approach is exemplified by peacekeepers serving in Wau, Western Bahr El Ghazal, with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan where they work closely with local police and community leaders to build their capacity to take charge of their own safety.
During patrols across the State, they prioritize listening, so that they can understand the most urgent concerns of those they serve. For these peacekeepers, the strongest sign of trust is when people feel free to speak openly and seek help before a situation escalates. This is vital for early warning of potential threats, particularly in conflict-prone areas.
“Before our daily patrols, I often receive calls from community leaders,” explains peacekeeper Albert Legan. “They might express concerns or simply say, ‘nahn bikhayr,’ meaning ‘we are fine’ in Arabic.”
Albert is a police officer from Malaysia, who joined UNMISS two years ago. For him, these kinds of calls demonstrate the importance of building meaningful and genuine relationships over time.
Community members agree that a joint approach to problem-solving and the de-escalation of tensions works best.
“As an example, it helps us tackle theft and gender-based violence early through dialogue and proper legal referrals,” says Bakhit Awad-Shata, a Community Watch Group leader at Naivasha Camp.
Fellow peacekeeper, Eunice Adasi, says it’s the experiences she’s shared with community members that settle in her heart and endure, rather than what she records officially in her daily log of engagements.
“Some days, we don’t need to even ask questions. Communities approach us with their worries or disputes because they trust that we will listen and act fairly,” she says.
Beyond lending an ear to people’s concerns, peacekeepers also help communities struggling with access to scarce, essential resources.
To address severe water shortages, Eunice, who is part of the UN Network for Uniformed Women Peacekeepers, provided a high-capacity water tank for communities in Deimzebebir.
“Water is life. When a mother can fill a jerrycan without fear or struggle, it brings relief and it tells the community: we see you, we hear you, and we stand with you.”
Back to Albert, who stressed the importance of communication in carrying out his work.
“Language barriers can be our biggest challenge. Without a local interpreter, understanding each other can be difficult. But a smile, simply friendly wave, or a handshake builds trust even before we speak,” explains.
“On a patrol in Hai Masna, Jur River County, I met a family of 10 surviving on wild leaves. I couldn't walk away, so I returned with food and school supplies. In peacekeeping, compassion and trust is essential—not just during patrols, but also through community relationships.”
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By Busang Davies Maruping
