YAMBIO – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), in partnership with the Rural Development Action Aid (RDAA), on Thursday officially handed over a newly built Traditional Peace Hub to the Azande Kingdom in Bazungua Payam, Yambio County, of Western Equatoria State.
The handover ceremony was attended by traditional leaders, government officials, civil society representatives, and members of the UNMISS field office, signifying a milestone in the ongoing efforts toward peacebuilding and reconciliation in the state.
Speaking during the event, Mr. Effangd Rudolf, representative of the UNMISS Civil Affairs Division, described the center as a symbol of unity and diversity, stressing that it belongs to all communities living in the Azande Kingdom.
“This Peace Hub is a beacon of reconciliation for all tribes in Western Equatoria. It represents how people can live together peacefully and embrace their cultural diversity,” Rudolf stated.
For his part, Mr. Abraham Ueko, representing RDAA, said the new Peace Hub symbolizes unity and resilience among the people of Western Equatoria.
“This structure will host traditional meetings, community dialogues, youth and women empowerment sessions, cultural celebrations, and training on human rights and governance,” Ueko said.
“It will serve as a space to promote inclusivity and strengthen peace at the grassroots level.”
He further explained that RDAA, through its partnership with UNMISS, has implemented more than 20 similar Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) across Western Equatoria State, focusing on peacebuilding, education, and community development.
His Majesty Atoroba Peni Rikito Gbudue, King of the Azande Kingdom, thanked UNMISS and RDAA for their continued support toward peace and community development.
“This Peace Hub stands as a symbol of love, unity, and development for the people of the Azande Kingdom,” King Atoroba said.
He said the facility would help revive traditional leadership roles in conflict resolution and cultural preservation.
“It will serve as a place to promote peace, harmony, and our rich culture that brings all communities together.”
Yona Robert Mark, State Minister of Cooperatives and Rural Development, commended both UNMISS and RDAA for supporting community peace structures.
“This project aligns with the state’s vision of building a peaceful and green Western Equatoria. It demonstrates the spirit of cooperation between the government, the Kingdom, and international partners,” Robert said.
He said the state government remains committed to working with UNMISS and other partners to sustain peace and stability through traditional mechanisms and community initiatives.
Constructed under UNMISS’s Quick Impact Project (QIP) initiative and implemented by Rural Development Action Aid (RDAA), the Traditional Peace Hub is expected to strengthen dialogue among communities, support traditional justice systems, and promote sustainable peace and development in Western Equatoria State.
