A UNAMID-funded peace campaign concluded its activities in the localities of Kabkabiya, Alwaha, Elseref, Saraf Omra, Koma and Mellit, North Darfur. The event, started on 29 November, aimed at ending tension between farmers and pastoralists and strengthening social fabric among the various tribes living in those localities.
The campaign, supported by UNAMID’s Civil Affairs Section, Sector North, included open sessions where the community leaders shared ideas on preventing pasturing during harvest seasons and resolving inter- tribal conflicts through traditional mechanisms. 

Led by the Goodwill Committee in Kabkabiya and other local peace committees in Elseref and Saraf Omra, the attendees initiated a formation of a committee composed of representatives from the three localities to prepare for a general conference. The conference, proposed to be held in Kabkabiya in the near future, is expected to pave the way for durable peace among the concerned tribes. 

Omda Salih Jeed, the Chairperson of the Goodwill Committee, urged all community leaders and intellectuals to play their roles in building trust between pastoralists and farmers to ensure smooth and friendly interaction among them. “I call upon all Omdas and Sheikhs to play a significant role in strengthening peaceful coexistence among the local communities,” he said. 

Mr. Jeed also expressed appreciation for the Mission’s support to the peace campaign. “We wouldn’t be able probably to carry out this event without the support of UNAMID. Once again we thank the Mission for its continued efforts to bring sustainable peace to Darfur,” he added.
UNAMID’s representative, Mohamed Ibrahim, a Civil Affairs officer, reiterated UNAMID’s commitment to its mandated responsibilities which include supporting mediation in community conflicts and addressing its root causes. “UNAMID is concerned to restore peace, security and stability to Darfur. As part of its mandate, it supports such initiatives with the aim of bringing peaceful living and cohesion into Darfuri communities,” he said.

Mr. Ibrahim also urged Darfuri youth to raise awareness on importance of peace among their communities and work together to bring stability, emphasizing also on the importance of education as a key element for development. “It’s time for all Darfuris to work for peace and development. Youth particularly can mobilize their community members for lasting coexistence,” he added.   

UNAMID intends to support similar peace campaign scheduled for the coming months in Kutum, Tawila and El Fasher rural areas.