Social Peace Council: We are capable of managing diversity in Sudan
The Secretary-General of the Social Peace Council, Professor Natalia Yaqoub, emphasized the urgent need to stop and reject the growing discourse of hatred and racism in all its forms. Accordingly, during her address to a large gathering at a celebration held on the occasion of Eid al-Adha in Omdurman, she stressed that there is diversity and a strong social bond connecting all parts of Sudan, from north to south and east to west. She pointed out that respecting this unique diversity is the cornerstone for rejecting hatred and the first step towards strengthening the bonds of peace and comprehensive social security in the country.
Natalia said, “We want to emphasize to everyone that there is real strength in diversity, and in the diversity of difference lies great power, capable of guiding the country to safety.” Accordingly, she added that the Social Peace Council is fully capable of managing this great diversity so that we can create a new social fabric and a new way of thinking that transcends the bitterness of the past. She pointed out that achieving sustainable social reconciliation in any region requires listening to and accurately identifying the roots and timing of the problems, and resolving them with integrity and impartiality, because “social peace” at its core means love, joy, and peace.
The Secretary-General explained that the pioneering role of the Social Peace Council lies in unifying ranks and pooling energies after everyone has grown weary of the ravages of war. She added that work should be based on groups, not individuals, alongside strategic partnerships with civil society organizations, while also praising the significant role of the “House of Love” organization. Accordingly, she announced the office’s full support for all constructive initiatives, reiterating her appreciation for the armed forces and all those active in bringing about change. She emphasized the Council’s complete independence and non-affiliation with any political party, and its readiness to support all community activities.
During her speech in Omdurman, Natalia called for thinking outside the box and supporting women through small productive projects. She appealed to local administrations and “makushk” (a term referring to a specific group or organization) to accept others and reject negative ideas and fear. Accordingly, she expressed her hope that this platform would be a true forum for the values of peace and harmony that unite Sudanese people as one. She praised the media’s role in disseminating information, shaping awareness, and introducing the Social Peace Council abroad. She reiterated that the Council’s office is open to receiving visions and ideas because real change begins here, and we will not settle for less.