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Northern Uganda: World Vision praises step toward official end to war
We urge vigilance to enforce possible peace agreement.
February 25, 2008
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 In northern Uganda, youth in a peacebuilders club create a peace pyramid to demonstrate the challenges of peacebuilding in a region that has been ravaged by war for more than 20 years.
© 2007 Simon Richard Mugenyi/World Vision 'We are overjoyed'
World Vision praised the step toward an official end to the war.
"We are overjoyed at the real possibility for an end to this horrific 22-year war," said Rory E. Anderson, deputy director of advocacy and government relations at World Vision. "We have been advocating for years for an end to this war. Our field staff have tirelessly devoted more than a decade to serve those whose lives have been devastated by it."
Significant challenges remain
However, significant challenges remain even after the signing of the cease-fire agreement. LRA leader Joseph Kony has been reported to be moving toward the Central African Republic (CAR), away from the location of the peace talks. Today, the Ugandan government accused the rebels of killing several civilians in the CAR. Kony and his leaders' compliance with the peace agreement will be vital for its success.
"At this point, the cease-fire is simply a piece of paper," Anderson said. "It's a crucial piece of paper, but peace can only be real if the U.S. and the international community remain engaged to make sure that this agreement is fully implemented. Joseph Kony is incredibly unpredictable. We must remain vigilant to ensure that the resources and political will are invested in making peace a reality."
An estimated 1.7 million people have been displaced by the conflict. Helping them return to their villages and rebuild their lives and communities will require international aid as well as Ugandan funding and political will. Today and tomorrow, hundreds of students and activists meet in Washington, D.C., to advocate that Congress provide funding and political will to support peace in this region.
Learn more
>> Download a one-page document containing advocacy talking points regarding the war in Uganda (pdf file). Four ways you can help
>> Pray for a true permanent peace in northern Uganda, and pray that our government leaders would increase their presence as peacemakers.
>> Advocate for children in northern Uganda. Add your name to the No Child Soldiers Declaration.
>> Make a monthly financial pledge to help provide for the needs of children affected by war.
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