Upper Nile launches peace dialogue for three counties

The government of Upper Nile State has launched a peace dialogue aimed at reconciling communities from Nasir, Ulang and Baliet counties.

According to a statement from the Office of the State Governor, James Koang Chuol, the three-day Inter-County Peace Dialogue opened on Wednesday to address conflicts, rebuild trust and strengthen peaceful relations among the three counties.

Governor Koang opened the dialogue by urging the communities of Gatjiok and Ngok Lual Yak to embrace peace, forgiveness and reconciliation.

He said the communities are one people, connected by blood, marriage, culture and a shared history.

The governor also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to working with community leaders and security institutions to achieve lasting peace across Upper Nile State.

The dialogue brought together several dignitaries, including former National Minister of Labour and Chairman of the Nuer Community, James Hoth Mai; former National Minister of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs, Chol Thon Balok; former Government Chief Whip, James Kueth Chuol; and Alfred Orono Orono, Head of the UNMISS Field Office in Malakal.

County commissioners, traditional and religious leaders, community elders, as well as representatives of youth and women’s groups also attended the dialogue.