The Akut de Door peace committee, established in 2020 in Rumbek, Lakes State, South Sudan, has undergone a renewal process. The committee, initially consisting of 45 members, including 11 women, was formed to address intra-communal conflicts among the Dinka Agar community. After six years of operation, 14 members have been transitioned out and replaced by emerging cattle-camp youth leaders, including four women. The outgoing members will assume advisory and mentorship roles, ensuring the transfer of experience and knowledge to the new generation.
The renewal process was supported by the Peacebuilding Opportunity Fund (POF) and facilitated by Peace Canal organisations. The review and restructuring aimed to reflect on six years of experience, identify achievements and gaps, and renew the structure through a transparent and participatory process. Simon Duop Jacob, peacebuilding manager for Peace Canal, stated that the training for local peace committees was launched to restructure the established committees, which have been working in Greater Lakes State.
The Akut de Door committee has been instrumental in preventing and resolving conflicts, supporting early warning and response, facilitating reconciliation, and promoting the return of raided cattle to their rightful owners. The committee's efforts have been recognised by local authorities, chiefs, and community leaders, who emphasised the importance of working directly with armed cattle-camp youth. The new members will undergo training on conflict mitigation, early warning systems, and community engagement.
The Director General of the State Ministry of Peace Building in Lakes State, Zechariah Kuoi Majak, attended the renewal workshop and highlighted the importance of evaluating the committee's work after six years. The workshop aimed to assess the committee's achievements and identify areas for improvement. Majak emphasised the government's commitment to supporting peacebuilding initiatives.
The renewed committee will be composed of 41 active members, with 14 new members replacing some of the original members. The new members represent various communities in Lakes State, including Atiaba Payam of Rumbek East County and Mayom Payam of Rumbek Central County. Majim Muorwel Makuer, Akut-dor committee representative, stated that the changes were made to provide opportunities for new members to receive training and contribute to peacebuilding efforts.
The renewed Akut de Door committee is expected to continue promoting sustainable peace in Lakes State. Thon Aru Nyang, a Mayom Payam representative, urged the people of Lakes State to maintain peace and allow for peaceful elections. The committee's efforts will focus on disengaging from conflict, mitigating conflicts, and engaging with community members.
The Peace Canal organisation is working in multiple states, including Jonglei and Warrap, to promote peacebuilding and inter-communal governance. The organisation's efforts aim to support local communities, chiefs, and government authorities in building sustainable peace. The renewal of the Akut de Door committee marks an important step towards ensuring the continuation of peacebuilding efforts in Lakes State.
Key points
- The Akut de Door peace committee has been renewed with 14 new youth leaders, including four women, to promote sustainable peace in Lakes State, South Sudan.
- The committee's efforts will focus on disengaging from conflict, mitigating conflicts, and engaging with community members to build sustainable peace.
- The Peace Canal organisation is working in multiple states to promote peacebuilding and inter-communal governance, supporting local communities, chiefs, and government authorities.
