INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE CELEBRATED UNDER GUREI PEACE TREE BY JUBA RESIDENTS OVER A CUP OF PEACE TEA

Gurei, a suburb in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, recently played host to its own International Peace Day Celebration, uniting residents from various ethnic communities and neighborhoods within and outside Juba. The event, organized by Salaam Junub under the Gurei Peace Tree on October 28, 2024, has been a platform for numerous peace programs and celebrations since 2018, drawing participants such as students from secondary schools, government officials at state and national levels, and community members.

During the celebration, Bush Buse, co-founder of Salaam and driver behind the Taking Tea Together (TTT) peace initiative, shared insights into the concept and importance of TTT in fostering lasting peace among South Sudan’s diverse communities. Speaking to the audience, Buse emphasized the shared commitment to peace, urging everyone present to refrain from violence and wrongdoing. Lawrence Musoke, the Director General at CES Ministry of Peace Building, advised the youth to avoid harmful substances like Royal Gin and reflected on South Sudan’s journey towards independence, emphasizing unity and peaceful coexistence.

Subsequently, members of the Journalism Club from Bright Boma Secondary School, aged between 15 and 19, presented news items focusing on peace and violence-related topics. The students showcased articulate responses and profound analysis during the broadcast segments, showcasing their thoughtful perspectives.

The event then shifted to interactive round-table discussions with more than ten TTT groups addressing key challenges to youth engagement in peacebuilding and community development. Participants identified obstacles such as limited resources, unemployment, lack of representation in decision-making processes, negative cultural influences, and tribalism. They also discussed opportunities for youth involvement in promoting peace and development, underscoring the significance of education, intercultural initiatives, and volunteerism.

A panel comprising Bush Buse, Aishatu Abdullahi (Peace Activist from Cameroon), and Malual Bol Kiir (founder of AYAN) further delved into youth-led peace-building efforts and the importance of creating sustainable peace initiatives. Moderated by Suzan Tandeko, the panel discussion highlighted challenges faced by young people in South Sudan and called for increased support for youth empowerment and development programs.

The day concluded with vibrant entertainment featuring performances by comedian Wokil Jesh Commando, artists, and traditional dancers, all centered around themes of peace and unity. The event resonated with the over 300 attendees, nurturing a peace-focused mindset and celebrating the diverse cultural tapestry of South Sudan.

The International Day of Peace celebration in Gurei exemplified the power of collective action and dialogue in promoting harmony and understanding among communities, emphasizing the crucial role of youth engagement in shaping a peaceful future for South Sudan.