UNMISS and partners trained 80 residents from Lobonok, South Sudan to identify security threats early on, resolve conflict, and build peace during a workshop that also had a special focus on empowering women as leaders. Photo by Elizabeth Mpimbaza/UNMISS.
With the arrival of the dry season, farmers and cattle herders in Lobonok and other areas of Central Equatoria State find themselves competing for scarce water and grazing resources, which sometimes leads to conflict. However, community-based approaches are being prioritized to mitigate these tensions and promote peaceful coexistence.A two-day workshop focused on conflict management has equipped local residents with the skills to resolve disagreements peacefully. Organized with the support of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), in partnership with the Independent Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Commission and the State Ministry of Peacebuilding, the training brought together 80 people from nine different communities.Participants explored important topics like how to identify potential conflicts early on, the vital role women play in peacebuilding, and the importance of peaceful problem-solving. The training wasn't just lectures; it included hands-on activities, group work, and realistic scenarios that reflected the challenges they face. A key focus was empowering women in peacebuilding to develop leadership and conflict resolution skills. As a result, are now represented on all local peace committees in Lobonok – a big step forward for inclusive decision-making."We used a participatory approach, including real-life scenarios, to help participants understand how to resolve conflict peacefully. It was inspiring to see women taking leadership roles and contributing their ideas." said Patience Antwi, an UNMISS Civil Affairs officer.The success of this program, despite the immense challenges posed by widespread displacement, shows that there is hope for a more peaceful future in Lobonok, she added.The training builds on previous peace building work in Lobonok, starting with the formation of local peace committees back in 2003. It's not a one-off event, but part of a long-term plan to build lasting peace in the region. Lawrence Musoke Samuel, Director General with the Ministry of Peacebuilding in Central Equatoria, emphasized the importance of cooperation in spreading messages of peace."No one is born wanting conflict," he explained. "Culture is learned, be it from our parents, schools, churches, mosques, or the environment. But we, ourselves, can make change and cultivate a culture of peace because, with peace, we will recover, reconstruct, and develop."