South Sudan Peace Ministry in conjunction with well wishers has launched peace building initiative in conflict affected areas of Upper Nile state.
Just like other states in the country, Upper Nile has been affected by conflict with communities divided along tribal lines.
The recent Nasir conflict has great negative impact on the lives of people in Upper Nile in general.
With hope to unite Citizens under one umbrella of peace, the Ministry of Peace Building, Republic of South Sudan, has launched a two-year initiative to support to bring communities together.
Several communities displaced and affected by the conflict will be able to rebuild their lives through this project
Funded by the United Nations Peace-building Fund will be implemented in collaboration with UNDP South Sudan, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the Danish Refugee Council.
According a statement by IOM, the project titled, “Towards Durable Solutions in Greater Malakal” is intended to provide assistance to internally persons (IDPs) and returnees to aid their reintegration and also host communities with focus on long-term peace-building and recovery.
“It will also provide training on skills development to improve self-reliance and employment opportunities along with targeted livelihood and income-generating support intended to boost household resilience,” IOM’s statement partly read.
Further, the program is expected to invest in improved housing, infrastructure and provision of basic services to restore dignity and enhance living conditions in affected areas.
UNDP South Sudan, one of the implementing partners emphasized that the program will benefit at least 20,000 individuals with 50 per cent anticipated to be women. The puts gender equality at the center of recovery and development objectives.
“The initiative aims at empowering women and youth to play key roles in conflict resolution and community transformation to foster peaceful coexistence among diverse groups,” UNDP noted in a statement.
The partners reiterate commitment to ensuring that communities are brought together and stay in peace and harmony.