WARRAP - In the aftermath of recent intercommunal unrest, communities in Kuajok have taken steps to mend damaged relations and reconcile.

On 17 January, following reports of South Sudanese civilians being killed in neighbouring Sudan, by Sudanese military forces, a wave of violence and looting swept across Kuajok market. The aggressors targeted nationals of Sudan, most of whom have lived peacefully in South Sudan for many years.

Two months later, Sudanese traders and South Sudanese community members met again, at a two-day reconciliation workshop organized by the UN peacekeeping mission, UNMISS. Local authorities, law enforcement agents, traditional chiefs and other stakeholders were also among the 55 participants.

"You are not strangers to each other. You may be politically divided, but you are still one people,” noted Adewuyi Adewumi, a Civil Affairs Officer serving with UNMISS.

While the atmosphere was cordial, tough questions were asked. Many, including Mary Achol, wanted to know where the police were when they were needed.

“We were frequently outnumbered, and remember that we have not even been paid for more than 14 months,” one officer replied. “But, we remain committed to rebuilding trust and cooperation among all communities living here,” he added.

By the looks of it, more positive feelings were generated during the dialogue.

“At the beginning, people stuck to their own and sat apart from each other, but on the second day there were hugs, tears and real conversations. Something had changed, and instead of blaming each other bridges were build,” said Helen Aater, a local social worker who also facilitated some of the discussions.

The reconciliation workshop concluded with the signing of a community peace agreement and the establishment of market peace committees, tasked with promoting accountability and preventing future conflicts.

More community dialogues are likely to be organized.

“This event was just the beginning,” said Adewuyi Adewumi. “Peace isn’t a one-time event, it’s a journey.”