Reconcile International Launches $49,000 Peace Project in Yei

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Reconcile International, a regional Christian faith based organisation, has secured more than 226 million South Sudanese Pounds (SSP), equivalent to approximately 49,130 US Dollars, to support a peacebuilding project in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State.

Launched with support from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the project aims to enhance local peace efforts in an area deeply affected by insecurity, armed violence and intercommunal tensions.

More than 40 participants attended the launch held at the Yei River County Secretariat. The event brought together a wide range of stakeholders including local government officials, religious leaders, traditional chiefs, police personnel, peace committee members, civil society organisations such as CEPO and Finn Church Aid, media representatives and officials from UNMISS.

Reverend Peter Tibi, Executive Director of Reconcile International, reaffirmed the group’s regional mandate for promoting peace, reconciliation, and sustainable livelihoods. He emphasised the importance of collaboration with faith leaders and civil society across South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and East Africa.

“We are working closely with religious leaders under a national peacebuilding framework,” he said. “White diplomacy, which is a peaceful, nonviolent method of engagement, remains a key part of our approach and is fully endorsed by the presidency and supported by UNMISS.”

Reverend Tibi noted that worsening insecurity in Yei County has made local peace interventions more urgent. He referred to a rise in violence, including abductions and attacks along key roads, which have limited humanitarian access and placed civilians at risk.

“There has been a repeated failure to uphold the cessation of hostilities agreement. Armed confrontations between government forces and hold out groups persist, threatening lives and stability, especially here in Central Equatoria,” he added.

UNMISS representative James Mugo welcomed the initiative and pledged the mission’s ongoing support to grassroots peace efforts. He noted the role of capacity building programmes led by organisations such as CEPO, Finn Church Aid and the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative in empowering local peacebuilders.

“Even in the face of risk, we are encouraged by the determination of community based structures and trained leaders to help prevent violence and foster peace,” said Mugo.

He also condemned recent violence targeting civilians and humanitarian workers in the area.

Yei River County Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme described the project as a hopeful development for the county, which has been at the heart of conflict in recent years. He noted the symbolic significance of the return of Major General John Laul Tong, saying it could contribute to building confidence between security forces and communities.

“This initiative gives our people hope,” said Taban. “Yei played a historic role in our country’s path to independence. We have a responsibility to restore peace and trust among our communities.”

Taban called for the reactivation of the Interfaith Peace Committee and encouraged residents to speak openly about their experiences and needs. He promised government protection and appealed to armed groups to allow humanitarian and peace actors to operate freely and without threat.

“We cannot build peace without open dialogue and mutual understanding,” he said. “This project is a step forward in helping Yei heal and reunite as one peaceful community.”

Project Funding Overview