Central Equatoria State, National, News

Restoring hope: Lasu hosts five-day peace conference

By Dogga Luwo

 

A five-day peace conference and cultural festival has commenced in Lasu Payam, of Yei River County, spearheaded by sons and daughters of the area.

The initiative aimed at promoting peace, reconciliation, and enhancing social cohesion among the natives and the surrounding communities, which have been troubled by the aftermath of the 2016 conflict.

Opening day of the conference on December 28, 2024, witnessed a huge turnout, including the presence of Yei River County Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme, who was accompanied by the SSPDF Area Commander, Major General John Lual, as well as other influential county leaders and dignitaries.

It serves as a vital gathering point for youth, elders, and leaders from diverse communities, where they would engage in sincere dialogue focused on reconciliation.

Given Lasu’s history as one of the payams heavily impacted by the 2016 conflict, which resulted in the displacement of thousands to neighbouring countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, the stakes have never been higher.

The effects of the conflict continue to impede the area’s progress, which now struggles with issues related to the lack of essential services, including inadequate road infrastructure, poor healthcare facilities, and a lack of educational institutions.

The significance of the conference cannot be overstated as it offers a platform for open discussions intended at identifying and implementing sustainable solutions to the issues facing the Payam.

On the inaugural day, Yei River County Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme officially launched the conference, underlining the theme of civil-military relations and the urgent need for collaboration between local communities and military personnel.

In his speech, he praised the Lasu community for organizing the peace conference, stressing his commitment to cultivating a peaceful environment throughout Yei River County.

Commissioner Seme urged everyone, including the military, to embrace forgiveness for past grievances caused during the conflict. He highlights that true peace and development can only flourish through mutual understanding and reconciliation.

He stressed the need for Major General John Lual, the army chief in Yei, to withdraw all SSPDF forces occupying local schools and the Payam office, to facilitate the resumption of vital social services managed by the Payam Director and newly appointed police officers.

In addition, Emmanuel provided several promises to the citizens, including the imminent reopening of Libogo Market, along the border with DRC, which is key for local economic recovery.

He further emphasized the need to also demarcate the land to support future development initiatives within the Payam.

The Commissioner also shared plans to recruit new health officers to strengthen the healthcare services available to residents.

Highlighting the importance of women’s empowerment, Emmanuel committed to implementing various training programs by 2025 to mentor women within Lasu Payam, equipping them with invaluable knowledge and skills to thrive in the communities.

In His part, SSPDF Commander Major General John Lual Tong expressed his appreciation to Lasu community for spearheading the peace conference, which seeks to cultivate lasting peace.

He emotionally remarked, “Lasu Payam has been the most affected place during the conflict where many women encountered rape by unskilled soldiers until they were sentenced to prison through general court-martial in Yei.”

General Lual further urged his troops to uphold respect for the civil population, especially as refugees from Congo and Uganda began to return to the area.

Lasu Payam, located 20 miles, west of Yei town is rich in culture and traditions, but it has faced persistent challenges related to conflict-induced displacement and slow development.

Activities scheduled throughout the conference will include peace talks, cultural performances, sports events, and various workshops that encourage community members to strengthen unity and work towards building lasting peace in the area.

A particular focus will be placed on youth and women’s empowerment. Participants will dig into important topics such as sustainable development, governance, security, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

The event will also serve to celebrate the strong spirit of Lasu Payam, featuring vibrant displays of traditional music, dance, and the arts, which are integral to the cultural fabric of the community.

Through this multifaceted approach, the peace conference and festival target to instil hope and drive tangible progress towards a harmonious and prosperous future for Lasu Payam and its residents.

 

 

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