JICA's Role in Fostering Peace and Development in South Sudan

JICA's Role in Fostering Peace and Development in South Sudan
A Culture of Peace: JICA's Contributions
The International Day of Peace, celebrated annually on September 21, provides a global platform to promote peace, non-violence, and understanding among all nations. In South Sudan, a country grappling with the aftermath of a long-standing civil war, the pursuit of peace and reconciliation is paramount. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has been actively involved in supporting South Sudan's development journey, with a particular focus on fostering peace and building capacity within local communities. On this day JICA joins Peace Partners in South Sudan to celebrate this year’s International Day of Peace under the theme: “Nurturing a Culture of Peace: Our Collective Responsibility.”
Capacity Building for Local Development

JICA's collaboration with the Local Government Board has been instrumental in enhancing the capacity of state and county government officials to plan and implement effective local development and community rebuilding initiatives. Through targeted training programs on budgeting and planning, JICA has equipped these officials with the necessary skills to coordinate government institutions and foster cooperation between the government and residents.

Furthermore, JICA has facilitated exchange programs, inviting local government officials from Ministry of Local Government & Law Enforcement, Ministry of Peacebuilding, Ministry Finance and Ministry of Cooperatives & Rural Development in Central Equatoria, Upper Nile and Western Bahr El Ghazal states to Japan to learn about Japanese local government systems. This exposure to different models of governance provided valuable insights and inspired innovative approaches to addressing local challenges.

Youth Empowerment through Sports for Peace


In partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, JICA has been implementing a youth empowerment program that leverages sports as a tool for peace. The National Unity Day event, which brings together athletes from across South Sudan, serves as a powerful platform for fostering social cohesion and unity among young people.

By participating in sports events and interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds, young athletes can develop essential life skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and conflict resolution. These skills are crucial for building a more peaceful and inclusive society.

Conclusion

JICA's multifaceted approach to supporting peace and development in South Sudan is making a significant contribution to the country's recovery and progress. By investing in capacity building, youth empowerment, and local development initiatives, JICA is helping to create a more stable and prosperous future for South Sudan. As the international community continues to advocate for a culture of positive peace, JICA's work serves as a model for effective cooperation and partnership.