The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on Tuesday launched its global “Hear Us, Act Now” campaign in Jonglei State, calling for greater youth participation in peacebuilding and decision-making processes.
The initiative aims to empower young people as agents of peace while promoting a broader understanding of peace as a condition that includes dignity, justice and security for all.
The launch event, held in Bor, brought together government officials, United Nations representatives, youth leaders, women and schoolchildren. Students performed dramas highlighting the importance of peaceful coexistence and the protection of children’s rights.
Jonglei State Minister for Peacebuilding Alier Panchol Alier said the state government remains committed to supporting peace initiatives and urged young people to reject violence.
“Young people must embrace peace and refuse to be used as tools to instigate conflict. They have a critical role to play in building a peaceful and prosperous future for our communities,” Panchol said.
He said promoting peace should be a shared responsibility among government institutions, communities, civil society organisations and development partners.
UNMISS Civil Affairs Officer Abdul Rahman Kamara described young people as powerful agents of change and called on leaders to create opportunities that enable them to contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding efforts.
“It is time for the voices of young people to be heard and acted upon. Young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also the agents of peace today,” Kamara said.
He said UNMISS had developed activities under the campaign to engage young people constructively and support them in becoming productive members of society.
“We must create an enabling environment where young people can lead initiatives, participate in decision-making and contribute to lasting peace in their communities,” he added.
Malek Magok Garang, guild president of the Dr. John Garang Memorial University of Science and Technology Students’ Union, called on leaders and development partners to invest in youth empowerment.
“When young people are empowered, they become ambassadors of peace and positive change. We need support and opportunities that allow us to contribute to nation-building,” Garang said.
Nathaniel Thon Achiek, a student reporter from St. Andrew High School, welcomed the campaign and pledged to support its objectives.
“This campaign gives young people a platform to speak out and participate in shaping a better future. We are ready to be champions of peace in our schools and communities,” he said.
The “Hear Us, Act Now” campaign is expected to engage young people through a series of activities aimed at amplifying youth voices, promoting social cohesion and encouraging active participation in peacebuilding efforts across South Sudan.
Organisers said the campaign serves as a symbol of unity and a call for young people to play an active role in shaping a peaceful future for themselves and their communities.
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