South Sudan launched two major peacebuilding projects funded by the UN Peacebuilding Fund and KOICA, aimed at reducing community violence and fostering resilience in conflict-hit areas. The projects emphasize youth and women’s empowerment, with budgets of USD 4 million and USD 4.8 million, respectively. Key initiatives include community violence reduction and preventing violent extremism, involving local communities in peace efforts.
The Government of South Sudan, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and UNICEF, introduced two significant peacebuilding initiatives aimed at mitigating community violence and enhancing resilience in conflict-affected regions. These projects are financially supported by the UN Peacebuilding Fund and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), focusing on empowering local communities, particularly youth and women, to engage in peacebuilding efforts.
During the launch in Juba, Minister Stephen Par Kuol underscored the vital role of community-centered strategies for achieving lasting peace. He stated, “This project is very important and timely because it is community-centered. We must go beyond violence reduction and aim to end community violence entirely.” He emphasized that leaders must ensure the safety and security of communities.
The first project, named “Community Violence Reduction Partnerships with White Nile and Sobat River Communities,” aims to alleviate insecurity along the respective corridors. With a budget of USD 4 million, this 36-month initiative will focus on reintegrating youth impacted by conflict, enhancing livelihoods, and fostering social cohesion through trauma recovery and psychosocial support.
The second initiative, “Peacebuilding and Preventing Violent Extremism in East Africa,” encompasses South Sudan, Kenya, and Somalia. With a USD 4.8 million budget, the project aims to bolster community resilience, particularly among youth and women. Implementation will occur in Eastern Equatoria, Warrap State, and Western Bahr el Ghazal.
Mohamed Abchir, the Resident Representative of UNDP South Sudan, noted the critical importance of collaboration in tackling the root causes of violence. He remarked, “These projects reaffirm our collective commitment to addressing the root causes of violence, promoting reconciliation, and ensuring that communities—particularly youth, ex-combatants, and women—have the tools they need to build a peaceful future.”
Abchir also indicated that the initiatives would promote democratic participation by fostering conditions for peaceful elections and enhancing local conflict prevention mechanisms. He acknowledged the contributions of the Peacebuilding Fund and KOICA, asserting, “These projects belong to the people of South Sudan, and we must all work together to make them successful.”
Undersecretary Pia Philip emphasized the need for community involvement in these initiatives, expressing that the project seeks to build resilience among youth, women, and organized forces, while also addressing the challenges posed by checkpoints. He remarked, “Today marks an important step toward achieving sustainable peace through community engagement.”
The projects will further address violent extremism through educational initiatives, countering hate speech, and promoting economic empowerment for youth and women. The Peacebuilding Fund Project will tackle conflict drivers with innovative solutions and effective violence management tools, while strengthening local conflict prevention mechanisms and equipping youth and women with essential skills.
The Ministry of Peacebuilding reiterated its dedication to partnering with civil society and local entities for the project’s success, with Minister Par stating, “Juba is not South Sudan. South Sudan is out there, where our people are. We must work with traditional leadership, youth, and women to achieve the objectives of this project.”
These initiatives are anticipated to enhance socio-economic opportunities, provide trauma healing, and offer reconciliation support, contributing to communities’ self-reliance and resilience. The timing of the project launch is crucial as South Sudan grapples with persistent community violence and instability.
The South Sudan government, along with international partners, launched two important peacebuilding projects aimed at reducing violence and strengthening community resilience. By focusing on empowering youth and women through collaborative efforts and community engagement, the initiatives seek to address the underlying causes of conflict. These strategic programs highlight a committed approach towards fostering sustainable peace and reconciliation in the region.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
