Juba Regions Reconciliation Conference Communiqué

In reference to the implementation of the Addis Ababa agreement on August 27, 2012, the Somali Federal Government organised and hosted Juba people’s reconciliation conference.

The Conference continued between 3 and 6 November 2013, with the participation of 200 delegates from the Juba regions. Delegates genuinely discussed on how to reach lasting peace agreement among the Juba citizens, supplement to the previous agreement signed in Addis Ababa.

Points raised and discussed in the conference deemed essential to peace-building reconciliation process for Juba regions were:-

• Enhance on-going peace building and reconciliation efforts.

• Increase security, re-integration of armed groups and the fight against terrorists.

• Move forward economic progress and social development.

After extensive discussion conference participants suggested the following:

On Peace-building and reconciliation

1. That, all parts accept the Addis Ababa Agreement in August 2013.

2. That, people of Juba strive to build consensus, forgive each other, settle property issues, restrain provocations that can lead to conflict and send peace message to the residents.

3. That, all stakeholders support the interim administration’s inclusive structure to be completed in respect of the minority rights, and the Federal Government should take a lead role on this issue.

4. That, the final phase of the reconciliation conference to be held in Kismayo.

5. That, the role of civil society in Juba regions to be strengthened.

On Security Issues

1. That, build the security institutions including; police force, military and guards. Other sources of employment should be created for those who are not ready to join the security apparatus.

2. That, a peaceful re-integration and redeployment of the Juba armed groups to form unified force.

3. That, it is of the utmost important to meet the needs of the armed forces i.e. salaries paid in a timely manner, provide appropriate training, advance equipment provided, and re-establish the military courts.

4. That, operation to liberate areas controlled by Al-Shabab carried out jointly by the Juba interim administration, Federal Government of Somalia and AMISOM forces.

5. That, it is necessary to establish ex-militants demobilisation, disarmament and re-integration canters.

On Social Affairs

1. That, develop and mobilise local available resources such as livestock, agricultural, fishery and other natural resources, and encourage trade and private industries.

2. That, re-establish education centres and vocational training centers.

3. That, establish quality public health services at the district and village level.

4. That, the Federal Government and the International Community give support to Juba regions to meet its residents’ basic social services.

Appreciations

The conference delegates acknowledge the efforts of the Federal Government of Somalia for its important role during the preparation of this particular peace and reconciliation conference for the people of Juba Regions.

The conference delegates acknowledge the support by the international community and specially the Government of Ethiopia for its tireless support throughout the peace process.

END