Edmund Yakani to Represent Civil Society in IGAD Forum

(JUBA) – Mr. Edmund Yakani, a respected South Sudanese civil society advocate and Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), has been elected Rapporteur of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Civil Society Peace Forum. The announcement was made on 13 July 2025 during a regional meeting held under IGAD’s peace and security pillarm His election marks a notable achievement for South Sudan’s civic space and underscores the growing recognition of grassroots voices in regional peace processes. Mr. Yakani was chosen by fellow civil society representatives from across the East African region for his consistent advocacy on peace, human rights, and inclusive governance.   Following his election, Mr. Yakani stated, “This is not just a personal achievement but a responsibility to represent the voices of civil society across the IGAD region. I am committed to ensuring that grassroots concerns are heard at regional peace and policy tables.” The IGAD Civil Society Peace Forum serves as a regional platform that brings together non state actors to contribute to conflict prevention, dialogue, mediation, and post-conflict recovery. As Rapporteur, Mr. Yakani will be responsible for documenting forum discussions, conveying the views of civil society, and enhancing coordination between national civic networks and IGAD decision makers. Mr. Yakani has long championed citizen driven dialogue and accountability, and is expected to help shape the civic agenda in IGAD led initiatives across the Horn of Africa. His role may also offer South Sudan’s civil society more visibility and influence in shaping regional peace frameworks.