Vatican City: Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala of Tombura Yambio County in South Sudan has appealed to political leaders, religious communities, young people, women, and families to work together for peace and reconciliation in the troubled Western Equatoria region.
In a message addressed to authorities, religious leaders, and the people of the state, the bishop reflected on the painful years of violence, displacement, mistrust, and economic hardship that have deeply affected the region. He said Western Equatoria was once known as the “Bread Basket of South Sudan” and a land of peaceful coexistence, hospitality, dialogue, and human dignity, but conflicts over the years have damaged the social fabric of society.
According to the Vatican news agency Fides, the state has experienced repeated attacks by the Lord’s Resistance Army and several internal conflicts. Bishop Hiiboro said the suffering endured by communities had shown one important truth very clearly. Violence, hatred, and revenge, he said, have never brought healing or lasting peace.
The bishop stressed that genuine peace can only grow through dialogue, mutual respect, and reconciliation. He urged all sectors of society to revive respectful conversations and work towards unity instead of division.
“Let us revive the culture of respectful conversation, reconciliation, and unity,” he appealed, adding that leaders should speak honestly with communities and listen to the concerns of the people.
Bishop Hiiboro also encouraged chiefs, church leaders, youth groups, women, intellectuals, civil society organisations, and families to become “bridges of healing and peace.” He reminded people that human life is sacred and must always be protected because life itself is a gift from God.
A major concern raised by the bishop was the misuse of media and careless public communication. He warned that irresponsible words and messages can destroy relationships that communities have built over generations. According to him, words carry great power because they can either unite people or deepen divisions.
He encouraged society to promote language that is respectful, wise, responsible, and encouraging. The bishop said peace begins with attitudes and daily actions that help heal memories, reduce bitterness, and rebuild trust among communities.
Calling people back to prayer and faith, he invited everyone to look to Christ as the Prince of Peace. He explained that peace is not only the absence of conflict but also the transformation of hearts and relationships.
In his message, the bishop also gave special encouragement to different groups within society. He reminded political leaders that leadership should be a service to the people rather than a source of division. He encouraged young people to use their talents and energy in education, agriculture, innovation, entrepreneurship, and peacebuilding to help create a better future for South Sudan.
Women, he said, have an important role as guardians of life, healing, and reconciliation within families and communities. Traditional leaders were asked to recover the wisdom of dialogue, patience, and moral leadership. He also urged fellow church leaders to continue defending truth, justice, peace, and unity without fear or tribal divisions.
Concluding his appeal, Bishop Hiiboro called on all people of Western Equatoria to work together for peace, development, and prosperity so that the state can make a strong contribution to the unity and future of South Sudan.