Official Urges Citizens to Embrace Peace in Their Communities

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – An official from Yei River County is calling on citizens to embrace peaceful coexistence and avoid actions that create division and hostility within communities.

Lupai James Seme, an officer from the Non Violence and Development, told Access Radio on Tuesday that sustainable peace begins at the individual and household levels.

He emphasized that people must avoid harmful actions both at home and in workplaces and instead promote dialogue and understanding.

“For peace to prevail in the community, people should avoid doing evil at all levels — whether at home or at work. Communities should initiate peace dialogues for peaceful coexistence,” Lupai said.

Lupai noted that poor communication is often an early warning sign of conflict within communities. He stressed that misunderstandings and lack of open dialogue can easily escalate tensions.

He added that the Organization for Non Violence and Development is working to strengthen citizens’ capacity in peacebuilding, particularly at a time when communities are also grappling with economic hardships.

“Poor communication is one of the immediate indicators that generates conflict in communities. Our organization is here to strengthen citizens in peacebuilding, especially during this period of economic crisis,” he explained.

The remarks were made during a one-day peace training session held in Yei Town for returnees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), chiefs, and government officials.

The training aimed to promote reconciliation, peaceful dialogue, and cooperation among different community groups.