Over 20 Catholic Church leaders from dioceses across South Sudan have gathered in Kit for a peace advocacy workshop organized by the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa.
The four-day training brings together 25 representatives from eight dioceses, including heads of Peace and Justice Departments and Caritas offices. It focuses on strengthening peacebuilding and advocacy strategies within the Church.
In his opening remarks, Romano Luis, Assistant Secretary of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference, said the training is designed to equip Church leaders with practical tools to promote peace in their respective dioceses.
He encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing throughout the sessions, noting that these are essential for maximizing learning outcomes and building effective peace initiatives.
“So, as we begin this journey that will run until Friday, I am sure we are going to learn many things. My advice is to embrace collaboration—sharing ideas and engaging in group discussions—because it is through such interactions that we truly benefit.”
Meanwhile, Fr. Paul Igweta, Coordinator AMECEA- Promotion of Integral Human Development department AMECEA, said the workshop also aims to mobilize both human and institutional resources to support peace efforts and prepare the country for credible elections.
He noted that the Church has remained actively involved in South Sudan’s peace process through partnerships, dialogue platforms, and participation in international forums.
Fr. Igweta emphasized that the ultimate goal is to create conditions where citizens can live peacefully, pursue livelihoods, educate their children, and rebuild their communities without fear of violence.
“The people need space to grow their crops, care for their families, and live in dignity not to hear the sound of guns every day,” he said.
The workshop marks another step in the Church’s ongoing efforts to promote peace, reconciliation, and democratic governance in South Sudan and the wider Eastern Africa region.