Kindness and Cooperation at the Heart of UN Day Celebrations in Torit

Kindness and Cooperation at the Heart of UN Day Celebrations in Torit

Kindness and Cooperation at the Heart of UN Day Celebrations in Torit

26 Oct 2017

Kindness and Cooperation at the Heart of UN Day Celebrations in Torit

Leni Kinzli

Jubilant songs and celebratory shouts from the diverse tribes of Imatong State rang out across Torit town during a cultural festival marking the 72nd Anniversary of the United Nations.

The beating of drums and the sound of trumpets created a festive atmosphere for the occasion, which brought together cultural groups, government officials, youth, religious leaders and UN personnel for a colourful day that highlighted unity in diversity.

Lutuko, Pari, Acholi, Madi, and Lopid communities clapped and cheered each other on during traditional dance performances, while government officials and UNMISS personnel jumped from their seats to participate and dance alongside the cultural groups. Several government officials even showed off their musical talent by eagerly keeping the beat of the drums.

A community leader from the Acholi tribe, Komakech Pa Odwel, expressed his gratitude to UNMISS for promoting the cultural diversity of Imatong State, in the name of building peace together for South Sudan.

“I do appreciate UNMISS because it is them and it is the UN system that brings every culture and every tribe here together,” he said. “We have never seen this before. And it is good if they can continue like this with the youth and with the elders.”

UNMISS Acting Head of Field Office, Bashir Aligelle, highlighted the UN’s work in Eastern Equatoria to protect civilians and build a durable peace.

“UN agencies in Imotong and Kapoeta States have been and continue to work very hard to protect civilians, provide humanitarian assistance, and support efforts to achieve peace through reconciliation, social cohesion, and dialogue wherever and whenever the situation can permit,” he said.

Youth Peace Ambassadors – a program launched by UNMISS last month –  also presented a poem and drama during the celebrations that called on their leaders, their communities, and their fellow peers to engage for peace.

"I dream of a world peace,
where people can live a life of ease.
Where there is no difference between rich and poor,
life being pleasant for living evermore.
I dream of a world happiness,
where there is no side of selfishness.
Where each and every one can benefit his needs,
and believe in their own needs.
I dream of a world kindness,
where people can know that the value of love is priceless.
Where people can realize on this earth: we are all children,
And to have a kind heart is better for all men."

Their poem, along with the spirit of cooperation amongst cultures, evoked sentiments of compassion that deeply resonated with the crowd and illustrated what is at the heart of the United Nations: overcoming cultural and ethnic divides to work together towards peace.