Kauda, August 17 (Darfur24)
The Nuba Mountains Civil Society Youth Platform launched an initiative on Sunday aimed at ending the conflict between the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-North) and members of the Otoro tribe in Kauda, Heiban locality, South Kordofan State.
Kauda has experienced tensions since March following disputes over the demarcation of boundaries between communities, which later escalated into clashes involving the SPLM-North and members of the Otoro tribe, whom the movement describes as “rebels.”
The platform said in a statement that it launched the “Peace of Heiban” initiative as part of its civic responsibility and belief that dialogue and peaceful engagement are the best means of resolving conflicts.
The initiative will seek to engage SPLM authorities, the Otoro Mekutia, the Nuba Mountains Regional Government and other local actors to promote dialogue, reduce tensions and strengthen peace efforts.
The platform said it also aims to mobilize community members around peaceful coexistence, support local peace initiatives and strengthen the participation of youth and women in peacebuilding and conflict-resolution efforts.
It further plans to expand engagement with humanitarian partners, donors and regional and international organizations to mobilize resources for emergency humanitarian assistance, relief and early recovery in the region.
The platform emphasized that the initiative is independent and does not support any party to the conflict. Its stated goal is to create safe spaces for dialogue, build trust among local communities, protect civilians and preserve the region’s social fabric.
“The Heiban Peace Initiative stems from an independent civil position that does not side with any party to the conflict, but rather sides with humanity and the right of communities to security, peace and a decent life,” the statement said.
The platform called on all parties to prioritize dialogue, halt escalation, protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian access and support initiatives aimed at ending the suffering of residents in Kauda and surrounding areas.