South Sudan peace unclear as talks leave out clergy, other key stakeholders

While the parties in conflict in South Sudan signed a recent peace agreement, it did not include key stakeholders—faith groups among them—making long-term hopes for peace uncertain.

An estimated 50,000 people have died, and 2 million have been displaced in the latest phase of fighting, according to the International Crisis Group, a think tank that aims to prevent and resolve such conflicts.

“South Sudan’s conflict is not getting much attention due to shifting interests towards Islamic extremism,” said Fred Nyabera of Kenya, a social scientist who is director of the Interfaith Initiative to End Child Poverty at the global faith-based organization Arigatou International. “But leaving South Sudan alone at this time when the people are trying to define their identity and country, under very fragile circumstances, is to postpone a big problem,” Nyabera added.