Empowering Central Equatoria State MPs: Four-Day Conflict Resolution Training Kicks Off in Juba

By Fuli Dickens Isaac

A crucial four-day training session on conflict resolution for 50 Members of Parliament from Central Equatoria State commenced in Juba, organized by the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative. The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance the capacity of parliamentarians in effectively resolving conflicts within the state.

Addressing the importance of the training, Right Honorable Speaker Peter Wani Eliya of the State Legislative Assembly emphasized its significance in enabling MPs to address pressing issues such as land grabbing, killings, child abduction, and insecurity across all six counties of Central Equatoria State. He urged the parliamentarians to take this training seriously and view themselves as ambassadors for peace and reconciliation in the region.

James Wani, the Director of Peacebuilding at the State Ministry of Peacebuilding, reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting peace and advocating for the rights of citizens in the state. Wani emphasized that continuous training sessions for parliamentarians are essential for enhancing their skills in conflict resolution.

William Ongoro, a Conflict Resolution Expert at Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative, affirmed the organization’s dedication to providing essential knowledge to Central Equatoria State parliamentarians on effectively handling conflict-related issues at the community level. He mentioned plans for future training sessions with additional parliamentarians to further enhance conflict resolution efforts in the state.

Representing the women’s caucus in the State Legislative Assembly, Honorable Rose Bone Yoasa highlighted the pivotal role of women in peacebuilding activities at all community levels. She expressed confidence that the knowledge gained during the training would empower women to promote peace and unity throughout Central Equatoria State.

The four-day training, which began on Wednesday and is set to conclude on Saturday, aims to equip parliamentarians with the necessary skills to handle conflict resolution effectively within Central Equatoria State.