State officials, community leaders and United Nations representatives gathered in South Sudan’s Lakes State on Friday to mark the International Day of Peace, urging young people to become ambassadors for stability.
The event, held under the theme “Act Now for Peace in South Sudan,” took place at Rumbek Freedom Square.
The International Day of Peace, also officially known as World Peace Day, is a United Nations-sanctioned holiday observed annually on 21 September.
Christopher Muchiru, the head of the U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) field office in Rumbek, said the mission and its humanitarian partners were celebrating the day with the community. He credited the administration of Governor Rin Tueny Mabor with returning stability to the state and making it a “haven of peace.”
Muchiru specifically addressed the youth in his remarks. “We know the youth are misdirected with acts of violence between the community by malicious actors with interests,” he said. “The youth can be the most powerful advocate and ambassadors for change and bring about real and lasting peace in our communities.”
He urged them to join with women, traditional leaders and local authorities to work toward the year’s theme.
William Koji Kerjok, Lakes State minister of culture, youth and sports, linked the day to national politics, assuring the international community that the ongoing trial of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and others would not derail the peace process or planned 2026 elections.
“Their case is a criminal related matter, and that’s why they are to be tried in the court of law,” Kerjok said. “SPLM-IO is a party, SPLM-IO is not individuals, and that party officials are there to continue with the peace.”
He also addressed local conflicts, calling on young people across the country to support President Salva Kiir Mayardit in maintaining peace. He said the state government is working with UNMISS and other partners to end conflicts in areas including Pakam, Tiaptiap Payam, and Cueibet county.
“The government doesn’t allow the revenge killing,” Kerjok said, specifically addressing the communities of Lith and Manuer. “We don’t tolerate that and we don’t want to see the community fighting between themselves.”
Laat Majak, chairperson of the youth union in Rumbek Central County, said young people are the “torch bearers of change.”
“Our actions today will determine the legacy we have for the future generations,” Majak said. “It is our responsibility to foster the culture of peace and not just in our words but in what we do.”
Sebit Kuac Manyiel, a paramount chief, urged youths and the community to maintain peace and stability, and called on UNMISS to help bring peace to the Pakam area of Rumbek North County.