IGAD leaders called for support of reconciliation initiatives in South Sudan, highlighting grassroots peace dialogues and the involvement of faith-based and civil society leaders. They expressed concern over deteriorating security conditions and emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve ongoing conflicts. The Tumaini Peace Initiative was highlighted as a critical effort to engage non-signatories and promote inclusivity for peace building.
Members of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) convened an extraordinary assembly on March 12, 2025, where they emphasized the importance of reconciliation initiatives in South Sudan. They called upon faith-based leaders, civil society, and traditional authorities to actively participate in fostering peaceful coexistence. The leaders heralded grassroots peace dialogues as a critical component in addressing the challenges in the world’s youngest nation, which achieved independence from Sudan in July 2011.
The Heads of State, representing countries such as Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea, expressed grave concerns regarding the deteriorating security situation in South Sudan. This includes a resurgence of violence and violations of ceasefire agreements, resulting in increased conflict within the nation. To resolve these issues, they underscored that dialogue and discussion are essential.
IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu provided an update on South Sudan’s security landscape, indicating significant escalations in violence. He reported that on March 4, 2025, approximately 6,000 fighters from the white army attacked a South Sudan People’s Defense Force encampment, leading to considerable casualties. A United Nations mission aimed at evacuating personnel resulted in further loss of life on March 7, 2025.
The report submitted by the executive secretary cautioned that South Sudan is at a critical juncture, warning of a potential return to widespread conflict that could have regional implications. To mitigate this threat, collaborative efforts to enhance reconciliation are necessary, including support for the Tumaini Initiative, which seeks to involve non-signatories to existing agreements and promote inclusive strategies that counter divisive narratives.
Religious leaders and faith-based organizations are actively engaged in peace-building in South Sudan. Stephene Cardinal Ameyu of the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba, speaking on December 20, 2024, expressed optimism about the Tumaini Peace Initiative, designed to mediate the civil strife and include previously excluded groups. He acknowledged the skepticism surrounding peace initiatives but urged against despair, highlighting the Church’s vital role in mediating conflict and fostering unity to establish peace in South Sudan.
The IGAD Heads of State underscored the necessity of reconciliation initiatives to address ongoing conflicts in South Sudan. They identified the importance of inclusive dialogues and collective actions while emphasizing support for grassroots peace dialogues and the Tumaini Initiative. Religious and civil society leaders play a crucial role in fostering peace-building efforts despite past skepticism regarding peace agreements. The situation remains precarious, and immediate collaborative efforts are essential to prevent further escalation of violence.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
