CENTRAL EQUATORIA – Kajo Keji has endured a challenging, conflict-filled past, but residents remain remarkably resilient. They dare hope for a brighter future, despite still finding themselves under sporadic attacks.

“When I learnt about today's activity, I felt immense joy. It made me happy because I knew that it would give us an opportunity to express our opinions and doubts – and be heard,” said Emmanuel Mubi, who seemingly echoed the sentiments of many of the 180 people in attending the event.

This grassroots community engagement, organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), was held under the theme "Building a Better Future Together." Citizens from five different communities, including youth, women, elders and traditional leaders, were keen to participate.

Cornelius Jele, Executive Chief of Sera Jale, highlighted unity as the key missing element for better times to come.

"But by gathering here today, we have a chance to build the kind of strong friendships that can promote peace among us all. With understanding comes cohesion, and with unity, we achieve stability," he said sagely.

Residents discussed a wide variety of issues, including the need to raise awareness on the progress made with drafting a permanent constitution, the implementation of pending provisions of the revitalized peace agreement, and on what to expect from the peacekeeping mission and other UN entities.

As community members engaged with the visiting UNMISS representatives, they also voiced concerns about poor roads, limited access to justice and the lack of vocational training opportunities for the youth, particularly for girls.

The good people of Kajo Keji are not, however, prone to idly accept the current state of affairs in the area they call home.

“Everyone in Kajo Keji has suffered both physical and emotional damage, which means that it is our collective duty and responsibility to restore lasting peace,” said Evans Pere, Peace Director at the State Ministry of Peacebuilding in Kajo Keji County.

“Our commitment is founded on four pillars: recovering our glory, rebuilding what was lost, restoring our values, and renewing relationships through forgiveness. Without them, we risk losing our identity,” he added.