SOUTH SUDAN: Government recognises the Role of Media in Peace Building
The role of the media in peace building in South Sudan has been greatly appreciated by the Government.
Speaking during the opening of a three-day workshop on sensitive conflict reporting in Juba on Tuesday, The Undersecretary in the Ministry of Information noted that journalists are ambassadors of peace for humanity because they disseminate harmony, justice; liberty and equality.
Even though Journalists operating in South Sudan have often been harassed, arrested and some media outlets shut down, Aler said the role of media in South Sudan is in the right direction for peace foundation. “Peace comes from grassroots, not from the top leadership.” He said
This recognition come about due to the media’s immense contribution of the media in peace building after violence which erupted in December 2013 and July 2016 claiming thousands of lives and rendering others homeless.
Meanwhile, Swedish Head of Mission in Juba, Henric Rásbrant urged South Sudan to enhance media freedom by revisiting and replicating their 250 years of press freedom and expression as a cornerstone for democratic and peaceful society.
Speaking at the same time, The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) official Judy Wakahiu supported community radios in promoting peace and reconciliation, saying that the media should deliver important information, education and entertainment for peaceful co-existence.
UNDP in partnership with UNESCO pledged continuous support for Radio for Peace Network in South Sudan.
Source: CRN
