The African Union - United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) celebrated on 21 September the International Day of Peace at Abushouk camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in El Fasher, North Darfur, in collaboration with the Abushouk Youth Association. The global theme for the Day, “The Right of Peoples to Peace,” aimed at promoting and encouraging a culture of peace.The event was attended by hundreds of people, mostly IDPs and students, in addition to government officials, representative of local society organizations, women and youth groups, as well as UNAMID officials.

Reading the United Nations Secretary General’s message on the event, the Mission’s representative Mr. Aderemi Adekoya said: “Each year, on this day, the United Nations calls for a global ceasefire. We ask combatants to put down their arms so all can breathe the air of peace.”

“Let us all reflect on peace – and what it means for our human family. Let us hold it in our hearts and minds and tenderly nurture it so it may grow and blossom. Peace and security are essential foundations for social progress and sustainable development,” the message concluded.

The occasion was marked with songs, traditional dances and a drama performance reflecting the root causes and possible solutions for the conflict in Darfur.