A civil society organization focused on promoting peace and development was officially launched Sunday in Yambio, in Western Equatoria state.
The Action for Peace and Development Organization (APDO) aims to empower communities through advocacy, dialogue and peacebuilding initiatives, its executive director said.
“Our mission is to ensure that citizens actively participate in decision-making processes so that peace and development progress together in Western Equatoria State,” Executive Director Odetta Miwai James said during the ceremony.
James explained that APDO is a faith-based organization that was first established in 2014 but became inactive due to a lack of funding. With renewed support, the organization is now resuming its activities.
The launch event brought together representatives from civil society networks, youth and women’s groups, religious leaders and local authorities.
Wanga Emmanuel, the chairperson of the Civil Society Network in Western Equatoria, described the launch as a “major milestone” for the state’s civil society movement.
“This achievement shows the commitment of the board and executives. It gives member organizations a permanent home and strengthens coordination among civil society actors,” said Emmanuel, who is also executive director of Vision South Sudan.
He urged the government to provide a conducive environment for civil society operations and called on development partners to support local initiatives.
Rev. Bishop Yepeta, a church leader who attended the event, applauded APDO’s leadership for reviving the organization and emphasized the importance of cooperation to achieve lasting peace.
Other speakers encouraged civil society members to work collectively to promote transparency, accountability and inclusivity.
The Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, the government body that registers non-profits, could not be reached for comment.