Peacebuilding and reconciliation work in South Sudan

Project Number: 179.1003

South Sudan became independent in 2011 after long battles. However, war broke out again in the north-east in 2013. In July 2016, the conflict spread to the entire country. A peace treaty was signed in 2018 and a unity government was formed in 2020.

In spring 2025, violence between the rival political camps increases again and the risk of civil war rises.

Campaign 2025: "Standing up for a peaceful society"
Mission 21 invites church communities to actively participate in the 2025 campaign. Together we promote tolerance, respect and equality - for a sustainable and harmonious future.

Background information

Since the conflict in 2013, which was about political power and the fight for resources, there has been repeated violence against the civilian population. Millions of people have been militarily displaced. A large number of the population is still traumatized, especially women and children. Even after the signing of the peace agreement in 2018, the South Sudanese government is still weak, has hardly any financial resources and is pursuing interests other than taking care of social structures. Since spring 2025, the rivalry between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar has also threatened to escalate again; there is a risk of renewed civil war. The church is and remains all the more important as a peacemaker.

Project goals

The WWD strengthens the capacities and self-confidence of girls and women, which promotes their political participation and engagement in leadership positions. In several courses, the participants learn skills that they can use in gainful employment.

Target group

In cooperation with the "Nile Theological College", Presbyterian students of all ethnicities are considered and included and people from different social classes are addressed

Activities

Women and girls are prepared for self-determined employment in several courses. In addition to an English and computer course, the participants complete a one-month business management course. In 2023, three female students also took part in a tailoring and design course. In addition, the participants are supported by procuring materials for canteens and tailoring. Regular management meetings ensure sustainable implementation and adaptation of the guidelines.

Project progress

The project has already brought about significant improvements in office work, particularly in management, governance and communication. Six women have started tailoring training and are looking forward to expanding the training to gain the necessary skills for the job market. However, the construction of a new PCOSS site is delaying the establishment of a canteen and the purchase of sewing machines, which will postpone the use of funds until 2024.

Outlook: Project expansion

There is great interest in the training courses among the population. For the future expansion of the project, there are plans to offer additional skills such as hair care, catering and the production of hygiene articles in order to diversify the skills of the participants. A vocational training center in Juba is planned to offer women a space for learning and exchange. By expanding training and providing tools and capital, the aim is to strengthen women's economic independence and promote talent.

At the Nile Theological College (NTC), a theological training center in Juba, peacebuilding and reconciliation work is an integral part of the curriculum. Details can be found on the project sheet "Education for Social Change, Peace and Development in South Sudan."(Project No. 179.1015)
Mission 21 supports a midwifery school. The midwives' training is supplemented with lessons on peace and reconciliation. The work of the midwives extends to different ethnic groups. Sensitization and assistance in dealing with the topic are therefore of great importance. Information on the corresponding project can be found under the title "School of midwifery: life for mothers and children". (Project No. 179.1022)
In the district of Pochalla, Mission 21 is running a project on food sovereignty and income generation. In addition to the project work in the agricultural sector, peacebuilding is also gaining in importance here and professional peace training is being included in the project activities. More information on the project sheet "Food Sovereignty in Rural Areas in South Sudan." (Project No. 179.1021)
In the project "Education for the future: schools and children's home". (Project No. 179.1010), training in peacebuilding and reconciliation as well as psychological support are part of the curricula. Teachers are trained in dealing with traumatized children. These trainings are to be expanded.