In South Sudan, youth leaders and initiatives are at the forefront of efforts to heal and promote peace in communities affected by war. Lunia Okuch, among others, emphasizes the need to overcome past conflicts and work towards unity. Challenges like gang violence and economic instability remain, yet these young leaders foster hope for a peaceful future through dialogue and community engagement.
In South Sudan, a significant movement towards healing war-torn communities is spearheaded by its youth, aiming for a future marked by peace and cohesion. Lunia Okuch, a peace ambassador from Malakal, underscores the need to let go of the past, asserting, “The past is already the past. We need to open a new chapter.” Her perspective arises from personal loss during the conflict, yet it fuels her commitment to fostering serenity in her nation, which has faced persistent conflict since gaining independence in 2011.
The pursuit of peace in South Sudan has been characterized by ongoing violence and strained trust, especially following the civil war in 2013 and the subsequent peace agreement in 2018. Current challenges primarily manifest as localized issues, such as gang violence and cattle raiding among the youth. Akol, a 22-year-old gang member, reflects, “If I had a job, I would not be in a gang,” emphasizing the lack of job opportunities that drives young people to gangs as a survival mechanism.
Gang involvement represents both a consequence and a catalyst of South Sudan’s instability. Nevertheless, figures like Lunia Okuch bring hope for the future, as they work to unify communities despite their historical divisions. This sentiment is echoed by Nyawar Monykuany, a representative for women, who encourages women to also engage in peacebuilding efforts: “Women can be peace ambassadors.” Through her dialogue initiatives, she aims to foster trust among formerly hostile tribes.
Economic recovery is critical for rebuilding South Sudan. Joel John, a builder from Yei, credits vocational training programs with enabling him to support his family after displacement. He remarks, “I chose this work because I can use it to rebuild my life,” though he remains concerned about insecurity in rural regions jeopardizing communal progress.
Despite the landmark peace agreement of 2018, grassroots issues like ethnic tension and land disputes persist, often exacerbated by environmental challenges. Organizations like the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are engaged in facilitating local dialogues aimed at promoting peace. However, as local efforts illustrate, the evolution of peace in South Sudan largely relies on the tenacity and commitment of its people.
The youth of South Sudan, alongside women leaders and local organizations, are progressively working to heal their communities amidst ongoing challenges. Their initiatives reflect a strong desire for peace, reconciliation, and economic recovery, underscoring the importance of grassroots efforts. Despite the enduring impacts of violence and instability, hope for a stable future endures in the determination of these young leaders and community members.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
