The United Nations Mission in South Sudan or UNMISS organized a two-day training for community leaders in Yambio, Western Equatoria on mitigating conflict and promoting peaceful coexistence.
The aim was to build the capacity of 20 traditional chiefs on how to resolve disputes among community members in an amicable, dialogue-based and peaceful manner.
“Western Equatoria was known as the breadbasket of South Sudan because of the peace in place here, which enabled farming communities to prosper”, states Farayi Nyamayaro, a Civil Affairs Officer with the UN peacekeeping mission.
The official added that “events over the past few weeks have been a lesson to every resident. Peace needs constant engagement and commitment from every community member”.
Local chiefs learnt valuable conflict management skills and tips on promoting reconciliation and social cohesion within their communities.
“As I walk out of this training, I will be ready to practice what we learnt here and ensure that my community coexists with others without any resentment or anger,” said Naako Beta, a leader from Gangura Payam.
Director General, Ministry for Local Government Benjamin Kamandor expressed state government’s commitment to work with all partners in building a peaceful, prosperous future for citizens of Western Equatoria.
The workshop was facilitated by UNMISS Civil Affairs Division, in partnership with the Ministry for Local Government and Law Enforcement.