Where We Work:
South Sudan
2024-present
What we’re doing
The first Community-Led Sustainable Peacebuilding Mechanism Workshop was held from November 19–21, 2024, in Bor, Jonglei State, South Sudan. The workshop brought together 30 leaders from various ethnic communities, local government, civil society, women’s and youth groups, farmers, and pastoralists. The primary focus was to address ongoing intercommunal conflicts in Jonglei State, including cattle raiding, revenge killings, child abductions, and land disputes. Participants engaged in stakeholder dialogues and collaborative problem-solving sessions to explore culturally relevant solutions and develop actionable peacebuilding strategies.
Why it matters
Jonglei State has been deeply affected by intercommunal violence, with conflicts often fueled by economic hardship, traditional practices, and weak law enforcement. The persistence of cattle raiding, child abduction, and disputes over land and grazing rights has led to prolonged cycles of violence. By facilitating discussions among community leaders and stakeholders, this workshop provided a platform for addressing these issues and fostering sustainable solutions. The adoption of resolutions aimed at reforming harmful cultural practices, strengthening law enforcement, and leveraging technology for early conflict detection is critical in breaking the cycle of violence and promoting lasting peace.
What we want to achieve
This initiative aims to establish a sustainable, community-driven peace framework in Jonglei State by emphasizing community ownership, inclusivity, and collaborative solutions. It seeks to combat child abduction through stronger law enforcement and peace dialogues, curb cattle raiding by addressing dowry practices and enacting protective laws, and prevent disputes between farmers and pastoralists by implementing clear land-use policies. Additionally, it advocates for disarmament campaigns to reduce illegal arms circulation, raises awareness about harmful cultural traditions, and promotes non-violent alternatives to traditional rites. By integrating technology for communication and early conflict detection, increasing public awareness of intercommunal violence, and strengthening community policing, this initiative empowers local leaders and communities to resolve conflicts and create a stable, peaceful future.
