AACC affirms the Joint Faith Statement on the war in Sudan
As the war in Sudan makes two years since its outbreak on 15th April 2023, faith actors working for the restoration of peace in Sudan have released a joint statement mourning the lives lost and calling for concerted action to protect civilians and first responders.
"We welcome the efforts of Sudanese actors to maintain access, communication and coordination to enable communities affected by conflict and crisis to access aid. Their tireless work to counter hate speech and divisions is essential to prevent the complete breakdown of the social fabric." Reads the statement jointly signed by ACT Alliance, Caritas Internationalis, World Council of Churches, All Africa Conference of Churches and the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa.
These organizations call on the international community to:
Greatly increase diplomatic efforts regionally and internationally to end the interference and funding of the conflict by external powers; as well as to urge the parties to the conflict to end the attacks on civilians and secure a ceasefire.
Increase funding and diversify funding channels and sources to ensure support reaches local actors, including community-based groups and faith-based organizations, who are on the frontline of life-saving efforts.
Ensure inclusive dialogue and a wider political process that can effectively address root causes of the violence in Sudan; including through support for locally led initiatives that promote peace and reconciliation.
Ensure adherence to international human rights law and international humanitarian law by all parties; in particular towards ensuring safe unimpeded humanitarian access to those most in need, into and throughout Sudan.
"As people of faith, we call for an end to this mindless destruction of lives and property and for the international community to be intentional in demanding and enforceable ceasefire and mobilize resources to respond to the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan." Noted the AACC General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Fidon Mwombeki as he affirmed the statement.
