On September 23, 2026, the Sudanese Churches Council and the Islamic Council of Nuba Mountains issued a joint statement calling for an immediate ceasefire and peace talks in the Nuba Mountains. The statement was made after three days of consultations in the IDP camp in Ruweng, South Sudan, from September 21-23, 2026. The leaders, under the theme "One community, one people, united for peace and reconciliation," expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict in the region.
The conflict in Nuba Mountains began on March 12, 2026, and has since spread to the entire Heiban county, causing loss of life, destruction of property, displacement of thousands, and psychological trauma. Bishop Lesser Koku, who addressed the gathering, emphasized that the conflict has weakened relationships between warring parties and called on all parties to cease hostilities and engage in dialogue.
The joint statement by the Christian and Muslim leaders included eight key appeals, including an end to violence, engagement in genuine dialogue, promotion of justice and forgiveness, and protection of civilians. The leaders welcomed the ceasefire declared by the Transitional Government and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North and encouraged all parties to respect and support these efforts.
The leaders emphasized that dialogue is the most constructive way to address grievances, restore trust, and find lasting solutions. They reiterated their commitment to peace, reconciliation, justice, forgiveness, and coexistence, guided by Christian and Islamic traditions. The leaders also urged all warring communities to remain calm and avoid actions that may escalate tensions.
Bishop Koku, while reading the final statement, appealed to traditional leaders, women, youth, civil society, and politicians to be active advocates for peace. He urged the people to choose dialogue over violence, reconciliation over hatred, forgiveness over revenge, and coexistence over division. The leaders also called on the local, regional, and international communities to support peace efforts and provide humanitarian assistance.
The conflict in Nuba Mountains has had a devastating impact on the local population, with thousands displaced and many more affected by the violence. The joint statement by the Christian and Muslim leaders is seen as a significant step towards peace and reconciliation in the region. The leaders' call for an immediate ceasefire and peace talks has been welcomed by many, who hope that this will bring an end to the suffering of the local population.
The Sudanese Churches Council and the Islamic Council of Nuba Mountains have taken a significant step towards promoting peace and reconciliation in the region. Their joint statement and call for an immediate ceasefire and peace talks demonstrate their commitment to finding a lasting solution to the conflict. The international community is expected to support these efforts and provide humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict.
Key points
- - The conflict in Nuba Mountains began on March 12, 2026. - The joint statement by the Christian and Muslim leaders included eight key appeals. - The leaders called for an immediate ceasefire and peace talks in the Nuba Mountains.
