- On two separate missions,  the UNMISS Civil Affairs Division visited the Gony and Thuyc communities in Rumbek East. The purpose of the visits was to initiate a peace process between the conflicting communities.

The two communities have been in conflict with each other for many years, but during the engagements it became clear that they are open for peace.

“We have started a peace campaign on 1 January”, explained Mr. Tuol Malual, Head of the Peace Committee in Malek-Agok, where the Thuyc community lives. “It is a difficult task, but I have accepted it because I am a son of this area.”

Also the Gony community from Cueichok has accepted peace. “The community you met, the Thuych, are the ones we are in conflict with”, said the Executive Chief Mr. John Pacong. “But we want peace; peace is very important.”

Civil Affairs Officer Mr. Amit Rathor is very positive about the two engagements. “We will support this peace process and bring the two communities together.” Intercommunal reconciliation is a part of the protection of civilians strategy of UNMISS, as mandated in Resolution 2252.