1 May 2012 – In tackling the underlying causes of conflict in Jonglei State, a four-day all-community conference kicked off today in the capital Bor.

Under the theme "Peace, reconciliation and tolerance", the conference brought together ethnic groups from greater Pibor, Bor, Akobo and Fangak counties.

In opening remarks, State Governor Kuol Mayang Juuk said it was time for Jonglei people to put their differences aside and focus on developing the state.

Otherwise, the state would continue to lag behind in development compared to other areas, which had focused more on development and peaceful coexistence among different ethnic groups, he said.

"Without peace we cannot build roads, schools or hospitals like ... other states in South Sudan are currently doing," said Mr. Juuk.

During the four-day conference, all communities will be given an opportunity to speak freely and present their views and grievances.

Chairperson of the Presidential Committee for Peace in Jonglei State Archbishop Daniel Deng urged participants to openly share their thoughts.

"This is the right forum for you to share your grievances, admit your mistakes and forgive each other because that is what God likes," said Archbishop Deng.

The overall objective of the forum is to provide long-lasting solutions for cyclic inter-tribal clashes that have claimed lives, destroyed property and resulted in the abduction of women and children as well as displaced residents.

Sudan People's Liberation Army Major General Kuol Dim Kuol told the gathering that more than 10,000 weapons had been collected during on-going civilian disarmament in the state's 11 counties.

He urged communities to hand over their guns voluntarily.

This peacebuilding effort is a joint effort by the Presidential Committee for Peace in Jonglei State in conjunction with the state government and UNMISS.