South Sudan takes another step towards peace

Rival leaders in South Sudan have agreed to form a new government – in a nation desperate for peace and stability. 

Breakthrough talks took place between President Salva Kiir and former opposition leader Riek Machar in the days leading up to last Saturday’s deadline (22 February) for forming a unity government. 

This marks the start of a three-year transitional period for South Sudan, following multiple delays to a peace agreement signed in September 2018.

More than six years of bitter conflict has seen an estimated 400,000 people killed and millions forced from their homes. Across the country, over half of the population are dependent on food aid.

Tearfund works alongside people in South Sudan who have been impacted by the conflict. This includes helping those suffering from malnutrition, repairing vital water sources destroyed in the fighting, and supporting women and men who work to bring peace in their communities.

‘Forming this new government is a significant step in the path to peace and stability,’ says Anthony Rama, Tearfund’s Country Director in South Sudan. ‘We urge those involved to implement the remaining steps of the peace agreement. This will enable the people of South Sudan to access urgently needed life-saving assistance and to flourish in the long term.’

PLEASE PRAY

• Thank God for this important milestone on the road to peace in South Sudan. Past deals have ended in conflict, so please pray that this peace agreement will stay on track.
• Pray for people facing the devastating effects of malnutrition and disease caused by a lack of clean water, especially children and older people.
• Pray for local women and men working to promote peace in their communities – that the people of South Sudan will know healing and reconciliation.