Jonglei State on Saturday joined the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day of Peace with renewed calls for unity, reconciliation, and sustainable peace across the state and South Sudan.
The event, held in Bor, brought together internally displaced persons (IDPs), women, youth, students, civil society organizations, and government officials.
Speaking during the occasion, the State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement, Simon Hoth Duol, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a culture of peace and harmonious coexistence.
He acknowledged the challenges Jonglei has faced in recent years, including violence, displacement, and destruction of property, but stressed the need for collective responsibility.
“If Jonglei is peaceful, the entire country will be peaceful. We are determined to ensure sustainable peace in Jonglei. Hence, all hands must be on deck to promote peace and peaceful coexistence,” he said.
The State Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Nyalele John,highlighted the close connection between peace and development, urging communities and leaders to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation.
“Peace is a prerequisite for development. All stakeholders must champion the cause of peace to make Jonglei State, and South Sudan at large, a safe haven for all,” she remarked.
On his part, Bol Deng Bol, Executive Director of INTREPID South Sudan, emphasized that lasting peace requires joint effort and consistent action.
“The 2025 global theme Act Now for a Peaceful World and our state’s theme Action for a Peaceful Jonglei both remind us that peace is not passive — it requires action, collective action, and sustained action,” Bol said.
He further called on the state government to enact legislation that would support the establishment of Youth and Women Enterprise Development Funds, as outlined in the peace agreement.
According to him, such initiatives would empower local communities, especially women engaged in small-scale businesses like the fishing industry.
Bol also urged authorities to expand civic space, stressing that freedom of expression, association, and assembly are essential for good governance.
“Civil society and the media are the mirror and ears of the government,” he added.
The International Day of Peace event was organized by INTREPID South Sudan, with support from the Norwegian People’s Aid, in collaboration with the Jonglei State government.
This year’s global theme is “Act Now for a Peaceful World”, while Jonglei celebrated under the local theme “Action for a Peaceful Jonglei.”
