By Deborah Akur Chol, South Sudan
A delegation from the United Kingdom, led by Ambassador David Ashley, visited Rumbek to evaluate the impact of the Peacebuilding and Resilience Project funded by the UK in Lakes State.
Minister of Cabinet Affairs Stephen Mathiang Deng welcomed the ambassador and his delegation, which included the Ministers of Local Government and Peacebuilding, the Chairperson of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, as well as partners from the Peace Canal and the Peacebuilding Opportunities Fund (POF). Together, they are working in two counties, Rup and Kuei, and Pakam.
”On behalf of General Rin, the State Governor, we warmly welcome you to Lakes State,” Deng stated. “Your support for peace among our communities is greatly appreciated.”
Ambassador Ashley expressed gratitude for the warm reception he received in Rumbek. “It is a pleasure to be here,” he said. “The UK has consistently supported South Sudan, particularly in peace, development, education, health, and humanitarian affairs.”
The primary purpose of his visit was to review ongoing projects funded through the Peace Canal, focusing on peace and development initiatives in Lakes State, especially in the education and health sectors. “We aspire to see a peaceful and thriving South Sudan, and my visit to Lakes State is a crucial part of that commitment,” he added.
Mary Arun Gol, the area coordinator for Peace Canal in Lakes State, mentioned that the ambassador’s visit aimed to evaluate the progress of the Peacebuilding Opportunities Fund (POF) projects. “We have been collaborating with POF through Peace Canal for the past five to six years, and this visit marks an important opportunity to assess our achievements and the challenges faced by the Agar community.”
She noted that the delegation’s last visit occurred in 2023, and the current evaluation will address the respondents’ experiences and the way forward for the community. Additionally, Gol highlighted the extension of Cueibet County’s peace initiatives and the establishment of eight peace farms to encourage coexistence instead of cattle raiding among community members.
The ambassador’s itinerary includes visits to these peace farms in Malok village, Rumbek Central County, and interactions with cattle keepers and youth leaders to discuss their efforts in maintaining peace over the past three years.
Deborah Bilu, a local resident, shared her appreciation for the ambassador’s visit, emphasizing the importance of ongoing support for peace initiatives in Lakes State. “While we have seen improvements in peace, challenges still exist,” she noted. “For peace to thrive, access to food, health care, and education is essential.”
Bilu highlighted the health challenges during the rainy season, with rising cases of malaria due to stagnant water. She called for increased support from donors in health care and education to ensure lasting peace and well-being in the community. “If children are not in school and if there is no medicine available, peace becomes elusive,” she warned.
As the ambassador leaves Lakes State, local citizens remain hopeful that his visit will bolster ongoing efforts in peacebuilding, education, and food security, paving the way for a brighter future.
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