UNMISS recently organized a three-day forum in Juba, Central Equatoria, in partnership with the state government. The objective: to provide a platform for all stakeholders, including youth and women’s representatives, community leaders, displaced people, persons with disabilities, and private sector entities, to engage with ministers and constitutional post holders in the state, on implementing the provisions contained within the Revitalized Peace Agreement.

The forum, organized by the peacekeeping mission’s Civil Affairs Division, saw participation from 104 people who engaged in spirited discussions on necessary factors for peaceful coexistence, reconstruction and development in the region.

“I am delighted that our contributions as young influencers have been captured in the blueprint for the way forward because it proves that youth voices and the issues we face are important to ensure future prosperity,” stated Anyik Chaplain Mogga, a youth representative from Kajo Keji county. “This, at the same time, gives us the necessary motivation to engage in various activities at the grassroots level to promote reconciliation.”

Priority goals that need to be in place to deliver much-needed services to the citizens of the state include a stable security situation; peacebuilding; access to social services; a functioning judicial system; managing the safe, voluntary return, reintegration and resettlement of refugees as well as the internally displaced; and ensuring economic recovery through agriculture.

Arranged into clusters, participating stakeholders mapped essential prerequisites for economic and social development as well as good governance.

For her part, Director of the mission’s Civil Affairs Division, Hazel De Wet UNMISS’s ongoing commitment to building a durable peace across this young nation and praised all participants for their constructive approach to addressing recurring conflict-triggers.

“There is power in dialogue and UNMISS will continue backing conversations initiated by the people, for the people and of the people,” she averred. “You have been open, frank and direct in contributing to the blueprint of a peaceful, prosperous state. This notion of own governance will surely lead you to grow and have the freedom you deserve.”

Governor of Central Equatoria, Emmanuel Adil Anthony Wani, echoed Ms. De Wet. “The best ideas and policies for serving all members of community are the results of diverse perspectives from the people themselves,” said Governor Wani, and encouraged all state authorities to adopt a ‘people-first’ approach.

 “We need to walk the talk. The time for action is now,” he added saying that similar activities should take place at the county-level as well.