Zalingei, 02 May 2019 – On behalf of the African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), I would like to extend my best wishes to the people of Sudan, at the start of the Holy month of Ramadan.

As we all know, Ramadan is a month of worship, reflection and reconciliation; where the basic tenets of tolerance and forgiveness are integral to the practice of fasting.

At this time of devotion, it is appropriate for all the Sudanese stakeholders to reflect on the progress that has been made for the people of Darfur and the ongoing transformation in Sudan. We in UNAMID recognise the achievement and gains recently made by the people of Sudan in their pursuit for freedom, justice and social equality.

As UNAMID undergoes its reconfiguration in anticipation of its eventual exit from Darfur by June 2020, it is our hope that the people of Darfur and Sudan, in general, can translate the essence of Islam as a religion of peace, love, and compassion into action by continuing to engage amongst themselves into a constructive and meaningful dialogue that leads to peace, prosperity and a better life for present and future generations.

As always, UNAMID stands ready to exert all possible efforts, within its capability and mandate, to support and facilitate such endeavours in order to help the parties to the Darfur conflict achieve a viable lasting peace in this region.

May the spirit of this Holy month inspire and provide the desire, strength, as well as the determination, to achieve durable peace, development and stability in Darfur.

Ramadan Kareem,

Jeremiah Kingsley Mamabolo

UNAMID Joint Special Representative/Joint Chief Mediator