“It is a new dawn.”

This emotional declaration signaled a turning point in the relationship between Ngok Dinka and Twic Dinka youth as they signed a new peace agreement, demonstrating their commitment to end the catastrophic conflict between their communities.

“All this time, we have been used in a conflict that was not ours,” stated Achuil Kon, from the Twic Dinka community in Warrap. “It is time to tell our peers: no more fighting, no more blocking roads. Let us allow farmers, traders, and families to move freely and without fear.”

Historically, the two communities lived peacefully side by side. But three years ago, a dispute over the border areas between Abyei and South Sudan, sparked a devastating bout of violence that that resulted in hundreds of people killed and injured, the widespread destruction of property, and displacement of more than 50,000 people.

At a landmark conference in Wau, supported by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), young people from these feuding communities came together to resolve grievances, reconcile, and rebuild their fractured relationship.

“This engagement demonstrates commendable courage,” said UNMISS’ Head of Field Office in Wau, Sam Muhumure. “You have decided to keep all your communication channels open regardless of what happened in the past. It is this effort that will help restore peace and shape a better tomorrow.”

At the conclusion of the three-day dialogue, the youth committed to implement three key resolutions: to ensure safe movement of goods and people, address misinformation, disinformation and hate speech, and cease all hostilities.

“I never thought we would sit in the same room again,” said Nyanwieu Mayol Changeth, a young woman representative, with her voice full of emotion. “We came here with expectations, made a joint plan, and agreed to stop all the fighting for the greater benefit of our communities. I am overjoyed with the resolutions from this meeting.”

Outside the conference room, the youth united for a friendly football tournament and danced together to the beat of music performed by legendary South Sudanese performer Emmanuel Kembe, demonstrating their eagerness to seize the opportunity for a fresh start and to build the better future they deserve.

“It's been a long time since we shared a space like this, a time to come together and talk peace,” reflected Deng Makuei, from the Ngok Dinka community, with tears welling in his eyes. “We debated, we danced, and we also had the opportunity to reflect that it is only dialogue that can help solve our problems and not violence. We are now ready to go home and spread a message of solidarity in one accord.”