South Sudan, Uganda Meeting Drafts Border Peace Guidelines in Kajo Keji

(MOYO DISTRICT, UGANDA) – A joint technical committee has met to develop terms of reference for cross border peace committees aimed at preventing conflict and strengthening cooperation among communities living along shared borders.

The meeting was held on 13th August with support from the Faith Development and Relief Agency, known as FADRA.

The meeting brought together representatives from government institutions, faith based organisations and peacebuilding partners to design a framework that will guide the work of the committees in fostering peace, preventing conflicts and strengthening cooperation among communities living along shared borders.

Participants from both Kajo-Keji County in South Sudan and Moyo District in Uganda discussed the structure, mandate, roles and responsibilities of the cross border peace committees.

They noted the critical role that religious leaders and faith institutions play in promoting dialogue, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence. The committee said faith leaders are trusted voices within communities and are well placed to mediate disputes, promote forgiveness and support local peace initiatives.

Members from both sides said it is important to develop a full and inclusive terms of reference that reflects the realities of border communities while ensuring the meaningful participation of women, youth, traditional leaders and local authorities in peacebuilding processes.

The committee agreed that the faith based approach would support existing government led peace efforts by using shared moral values, community trust and interfaith collaboration to address the root causes of cross border conflicts.

Participants also said there is a need for effective coordination, regular dialogue platforms and early warning systems to improve conflict prevention and rapid response.

The draft terms of reference developed during the meeting will be reviewed further and validated before being adopted for use by the general assembly.

Once finalised, the document will provide a clear operational framework for the cross border peace committees. This will enable them to facilitate dialogue, mediate conflicts and promote sustainable peace across border communities.