IGAD leaders urged religious and civil society figures to back reconciliation initiatives in South Sudan, amidst growing security concerns. The assembly emphasized the inclusion of marginalized groups, patience regarding peace efforts like the Tumaini Initiative, and the necessity for dialogue to resolve conflicts and restore public trust in the nation.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has called upon faith-based leaders, civil society members, and traditional leaders to actively support reconciliation and peaceful co-existence initiatives in South Sudan. This appeal follows the IGAD’s 43rd Extraordinary Assembly, where leaders praised grassroots peace dialogues aiming to cultivate harmony in the nation, which gained independence from Sudan in July 2011.
During the Assembly, the leaders stressed the importance of engaging religious and traditional leaders, alongside civil society, in reconciliation efforts, emphasizing the need for the inclusion and empowerment of women, youth, and other marginalized communities. IGAD comprises heads of states from Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea, and they convened virtually to address concerns about the deteriorating security situation in South Sudan, marked by renewed violence and violations of ceasefire agreements.
IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu highlighted recent violent incidents, including an attack on a South Sudan People’s Defense Force encampment and subsequent casualties during a UN evacuation mission. The report noted South Sudan is at a crucial juncture, warning of potential widespread hostilities that could affect regional stability. Efforts to promote reconciliation were deemed essential, with recommendations for increased support for the Tumaini Initiative, which seeks to engage non-signatories to peace agreements and develop strategies to include all communities.
Religious leaders and faith-based organizations have taken significant roles in peace-building efforts in South Sudan. Cardinal Stephene Ameyu from the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba expressed hope regarding the Tumaini Peace Initiative, which aims to address conflicts by involving multiple groups not part of previous agreements. Despite skepticism based on past failed agreements, he urged against despair, affirming that the Church’s role in mediating conflicts is critical for achieving lasting peace in South Sudan.
The IGAD assembly emphasized the urgent need for collaborative reconciliation efforts in South Sudan, drawing attention to the critical involvement of religious, civil, and traditional leaders. The worsening security situation demands immediate action, with initiatives like Tumaini playing a vital role in fostering inclusion and addressing conflict. Through unity and dialogue, there remains a glimmer of hope for peace in South Sudan, as highlighted by influential religious figures.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
