MABAN – As climate shocks, such as flooding and drought, cause havoc across South Sudan, communities are coming together to find shared practical solutions to prepare for and manage the impact.
In Upper Nile, a “Peace Talks” initiative, facilitated by the Maban County Civil Society Network and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan provided an important platform for discussions about how the pursuit of peace and stability is undermined by the basic struggle to survive.
“The dialogue was particularly useful with famines, caused by a prolonged lack of rain, affecting our communities more than ever this year,” shared participant and Paramount Chief, Juma Lagu Yuye.
Throughout the two-day dialogue, it became clear that the connection between conflict prevention and people’s ability to live and work safely remains one of the main pillars of peace.
“Peace supports our safety, our livelihoods, and the cohesion of our communities. We must cultivate peace within ourselves, avoid conflict, and remain peaceful, especially considering upcoming challenges,” highlighted Alex Ewe, Chairperson of a Civil Society Organization.
After exploring different types of climate disasters, such as drought and flooding, community representatives came together to identify practical solutions.
From early warning systems, evacuation planning, and reinforced cooperation across communities, the discussions were all about durable and doable prevention and response mechanisms.
“Not only did we learn about environmental and climate-related disasters, but we also received guidance on how to establish early warnings and respond effectively to emergencies,” said Yuye.
The lively exchanges didn’t stop there. Given a peaceful space to share concerns and exchange ideas, participants also used the opportunity to examine additional pillars of peace and ways they intersect.
This was illuminated by Harun Mahadi Paul, Deputy Secretary General of the Maban County Youth Union, who outlined how peace begins with individuals and grows through understanding between communities.
“Peace begins in our hearts, but we also need to work together.”
He encouraged people from different regions and cultures to learn about one another’s customs and youth traditions.
“Cooperation, a shared sense of identity, and cultural exchange can help build lasting peace.”
Women representatives emphasized the need to protect the most vulnerable, particularly children.
“We need to build peace across the country. My greatest concern is that our children should not suffer, fight or die, particularly here in Maban,” stressed Phibe Philip, representing a Women’s Union.
Her sentiments were echoed by Jote Othown Achonker, former Chairperson of the Maban County Women’s Union, who also added a call to action for communities across the country:
“Our message to South Sudan is to live peacefully, so our children can study and thrive, and women can take a break from all the suffering. We hope for lasting stability.”
As the dialogue concluded, community leaders called on residents to turn discussion into everyday action – to resolve disagreements peacefully, support one another during hardship, and keep children’s safety and future at the core of community efforts.
“Giving communities platforms like this encourages them to continue talking, listening, and working together to resolve differences peacefully. We know that communities know their challenges best, but we will continue to support these locally led efforts to the best of our abilities. Peace is a shared responsibility,” concluded UNMISS Civil Affairs Officer, Yetunde Makanjuola.
By Taban Geofrey Koma
