Commissioner Emmanuel Opens 2nd Annual Lasu Payam Peace Conference & Cultural Festival

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – The Commissioner of Yei River County Emmanuel Taban Seme officially opened the 2nd Annual Lasu Payam Peace Conference and Cultural Festival in Tokori Boma, marking a significant step toward strengthening unity, cultural preservation, and socio-economic development in Lasu Payam.

The five-day event, running from Monday, 23rd February to Friday, 27th February 2026, is held under the theme:

“Building Bridges of Peace, Cultural and Economic Progress in Lasu Payam and Beyond.”

The conference and festival have brought together community leaders, elders, youth, women, and stakeholders from across Lasu Payam and neighboring areas to promote peaceful coexistence and cultural harmony.

Commitment to Peace and Cultural Preservation

In his keynote address, Hon. Emmanuel Taban Seme applauded the Lasu Payam community for successfully organizing the initiative and encouraged them to sustain it as an annual platform for dialogue and unity.

He commended local leadership and community members for their dedication to fostering peace and preserving their rich cultural heritage, emphasizing that: Culture is the backbone of societal cohesion, It strengthens identity and unity and it serves as a source of pride for future generations

Call to the Youth

The Commissioner made a passionate appeal to young people, urging them to actively safeguard cultural values and traditions. He reminded attendees that nation-building is a shared responsibility and encouraged youth to become: Ambassadors of peace, Drivers of development and Agents of positive change.

The event stands as a powerful testament to the resilience and unity of the Lasu Payam community, reinforcing the vital role of culture and dialogue in achieving lasting peace and progress.