In a show of unity, Pakam and Luanyjang community leaders walked together through swampy terrain to share peace resolutions forged in their first-ever dialogue. This grassroots dissemination, led by youth and chiefs, marked a shift from conflict to cooperation—symbolising free movement, growing trust, and local ownership of peace as an ongoing, community-driven journey.

Despite deeply ingrained cultural norms, women in Deng-jock Payam have proven to be powerful peacebuilders. Through the Bridges of Peace initiative, they’ve led successful reconciliation efforts, yet their contributions remain overlooked. For lasting peace, we must challenge stereotypes and recognise that peacebuilding is not gendered—women are vital agents of change.

The Peace Cirlce workshop, held from 29 July to 2 August, brought together women from diverse backgrounds in South Sudan to foster connections, share experiences, and explore their roles in peacebuilding. Women from regions with a history of conflict set aside their differences to build unity and sisterhood. The process explored inner peace, forgiveness, and self-awareness as crucial steps toward broader peacebuilding. Participants reflected on their personal growth, gaining the courage to speak up for themselves and their communities.