By James Innocent
Director General of Peace Building in Central Equatoria State has expressed deep concern over the despair faced by thousands of South Sudanese amid ongoing conflict.
Since gaining independence in 2011, many citizens have struggled to find hope in a nation still grappling with violence.
Lawrence Musoke Samuel, the Director General for Peace Building has been quoted saying “let us face it, I dare to say we have to remind ourselves the sad fact that the people who voted for digital, fundamental human rights have their lives shattered due to persistent conflicts and hostilities in our country and many are left wondering and asking why and what they voted for.”
He outlined challenges of service delivery to the people in the rural area.
“Many basic services cannot be delivered to many for the period of 13 years, towns cannot be taken to the villages, instate people in the villages are coming to towns for safety,” he added.
He said hostilities, discrimination, and ethnic divisions plagued the society today, particularly in the southern counties of Yei, Morobo, Lainya, and Kajokeji.
He added that these communities continue to bear the trauma of years of violence.
Samuel emphasized the importance of cultivating a culture of peace among the nation’s youth and communities.
He called for both formal and informal education initiatives to instill peaceful values, asserting that fostering peace is a collective responsibility that requires active participation from all citizens.
In addition, Emmanuel Taban Seme, the Commissioner of Yei River County, urged South Sudanese to work towards peace, especially with the imminent return of refugees from Uganda.
He acknowledged the suffering endured by those in refugee camps, where many have struggled with inadequate food and shelter.
Both officials spoke during the launch of International Peace Day in Yei, where thousands gathered at Yei Freedom Square to advocate for a unified effort towards peace and reconciliation.