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July 28, 2026 – <\/b>Sustainable peace begins with local leadership. WPDI South Sudan recently brought together 100 community leaders from across Western Equatoria, South Sudan, to strengthen the skills and the capacities needed to address conflict at its roots. Over five days, leaders from Yambio and Maridi participated in intensive peacebuilding and leadership training led by our Youth Peacemakers and staff. Designed to equip participants with practical tools for conflict analysis, mediation, active listening, and problem-solving, the program engaged 60 participants in Yambio and another 40 in Maridi. This created a space where leaders from diverse sectors could learn from one another while building a shared vision for more peaceful communities.<\/span><\/p>\n Participants represented a broad cross-section of society, including county authorities, the State Peace Commission, Parent-Teacher Associations, education officials, land authorities, municipal representatives, the Ministry of General Education, and women and youth-led organizations. By bringing together voices that do not always have the opportunity to collaborate, the training strengthened relationships across institutions and reinforced the importance of collective leadership in preventing conflict.<\/span><\/p>\n Throughout the sessions, participants explored practical approaches to resolving disputes peacefully while reflecting on the role leaders play in fostering trust, dialogue, and resilience. The diversity of perspectives enriched discussions, allowing participants to exchange experiences, identify shared challenges, and develop solutions that can be adapted within their own communities.<\/span><\/p>\n For many, the training offered not only new skills but also renewed hope:<\/span><\/p>\n \u00ab\u00a0This training has inspired us to move beyond a culture of violence and work towards establishing a lasting culture of peace. We are committed to applying what we have learned and sharing it with our communities so that together we can build a more peaceful future.\u00a0\u00bb<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n \u2014 Faiza Tuna, PTA Member<\/b><\/p>\n Participants also emphasized the importance of extending peace education beyond government institutions and into local communities.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00ab\u00a0It is vital to empower individuals at the grassroots level to cultivate a culture of peace. By bringing this training closer to our communities, we can build a stronger foundation for lasting change.\u00a0\u00bb<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n \u2014 Abishai Gideon, County Education Department<\/b><\/p>\n Others reflected on the practical impact the training will have on their daily work.<\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.wpdi.org\/app\/uploads\/pic-Daniel-Mande-1.png\")
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