The forum brought together community leaders, citizens, and government officials to discuss challenges undermining peace and stability in Jonglei State and to identify homegrown solutions.
Held under the theme “Your Partner for Peace: The Neglected Responsibilities of Citizens,” the gathering aimed to foster dialogue, rebuild trust, and strengthen collaboration between communities and governance structures.
The opening session featured remarks from UNMISS representatives and state officials, followed by discussions on the status of peace efforts under the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCISS). Participants acknowledged some progress but also highlighted gaps, stressing the need for citizens to take a more active role in reconciliation.
Samuel Manyok Deng, Advisor on Human Rights Affairs in Jonglei State, said the forum would help rebuild trust between citizens and the government.
“It is time that citizens talk about peace and own it, because the current peace agreement was signed by the warring parties for the benefit of the people of South Sudan,” Manyok said. He urged participants to become ambassadors of peace in their communities and to spread messages of reconciliation.
Bol Deng Bol, a civil society activist and leader of the Jonglei Civil Society Network, welcomed the initiative, noting its importance in addressing local challenges.
“We have discussed key issues, including the implementation of the peace agreement and the intercommunal violence that continues to affect the lives of the people of Jonglei State,” Bol said. “Solutions have been raised, and this dialogue is vital because silencing citizens only deepens divisions. This forum opens space for constructive engagement.”
Participants expressed optimism that the outcomes of the discussions would reinvigorate grassroots peace initiatives and empower citizens to take ownership of shaping their communities’ future.
Jacob Bol, one of the participants, voiced hope for lasting change as the meeting concluded.
“We are delighted to explore solutions to persistent challenges in both local and national peace processes, and to find pathways to rebuild trust, strengthen unity, and advance social cohesion,” he said. “We are tired of the conflict that has gone on for generations. It is time for prosperity, and time to dream of a better life in our country.”
