A United Nations leadership forum held recently in the Wau Shilluk area emphasised the need to encourage peaceful co-existence between the Shilluk and other ethnic groups, as communities return to the area following their displacement in early 2017.

“There should be community co-existence between those people living in Wau Shilluk and Malakal,” emphasised an elderly female participant, who did not give her name.

The first of its kind in the area since the outbreak of war in 2013, the forum gave participants an opportunity to discuss issues freely and openly.

“There should be separation between civilians and the army in Wau Shilluk. We also need schools. Children are not getting education,” said the elderly lady.

Hosted by the Civil Affairs Division (CAD) of the United Nations Mission to South Sudan (UNMISS), the forum brought together 70 participants, including traditional leaders, women, youth and other community leaders, the majority of whom were from the Shilluk ethnic group.

The interactive session included brief presentations by government officials, and a discussion on the roles of community leaders and the challenges they face.

The forum underscored the vital role played by traditional community leaders in managing disputes related to local conflict, and in promoting peace.

“We need to continue to engage in similar forums in which one way or another we promote peaceful coexistence, especially with our neighbours from Akoka County,” said Chief Roman Ajak, requesting long-term engagement with other communities.

Urging participants at the forum to encourage others to return to Wau Shilluk, County Commissioner, Gumo Mayik Ayang-Ogod said, “Wau Shilluk is yours. In addition, you have to live peacefully with one another. Tell the truth even if at the expense of your life. Encourage others to come back,” he stressed.

The traditional leadership forum in Wau Shilluk is the first of a series of engagements that the Civil Affairs Division of UNMISS will hold with community leaders and chiefs in Ogod County.