UN campaign calls for peace and youth empowerment in South Sudan

Written by: Mohamed Ragab

The city of Bentiu in Unity State, South Sudan, witnessed an international event bearing the slogan “Listen to us… Act now,” as part of efforts to promote peace, consolidate social cohesion and involve citizens in stability-building efforts.

The event, organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, brought together representatives of local communities, youth, displaced persons, and a number of community leaders, where the messages presented emphasized the importance of dialogue and listening to the voices of citizens as the basis for achieving lasting peace.

Young people are at the forefront of efforts to build the future.

Young people stood out during the event as the most present and participating group, as they emphasized that the future of South Sudan depends on the role of the new generations in supporting stability and promoting development.

The participants stressed the importance of empowering and involving young people in decision-making processes, as they are a key force in building peace and national reconciliation, in addition to their role in addressing the social and economic challenges facing the country.

Several speakers emphasized that investing in youth, education, and job opportunities is a key step towards achieving long-term stability.

Displaced people call for a safe environment for development.

During the event, a number of displaced people residing in the Bentiu camp for displaced persons expressed their hope for achieving peace and improving living conditions and services.

Nier Qatchang Buach, one of the displaced people in the camp, said that this UN initiative gives citizens an opportunity to convey their messages to leaders and decision-makers, demanding the creation of a safe environment that allows for prioritizing development and basic services for all citizens.

She added that these initiatives enhance hope for the possibility of achieving lasting peace and ending the suffering of communities affected by conflicts.

The UN mission supports peace efforts.

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan continues to implement programs and initiatives aimed at supporting community dialogue, promoting national reconciliation, and building trust among the various components of society.

These initiatives focus on engaging youth, women, displaced persons and local communities in peace efforts, thereby contributing to addressing the root causes of conflicts and promoting peaceful coexistence.

The mission also seeks to support local and community institutions in order to promote stability and improve humanitarian conditions in the affected areas.

Peace and development are two sides of the same coin.

Observers believe that the event reflects a growing awareness of the importance of citizen participation in peace efforts, especially in light of the political, economic and humanitarian challenges facing South Sudan.

The participants emphasize that achieving development and improving basic services are closely linked to establishing security and stability, which makes community dialogue and youth empowerment among the most important tools needed to build a more stable future for the country.