Warring Ugandan tribes seek peaceMennonite Central Committee Uganda -- Two tribes in northern Uganda are seeking peaceful alternatives to the raids and violence that have hurt both groups. More than 100 representatives -- community, religious and traditional leaders, men and women -- from the Acholi and Karimajong tribes will meet Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 in Kalongo to negotiate. Peace efforts are being led by the Acholi Religious Leaders Peace Initiate (ARLPI), where Ugandan MCC worker Lam Cosmas works as coordinator. ARLPI includes Anglican, Catholic and Muslim leaders.  The Acholi and Karimajong, a semi-nomadic group, lived in relative peace for centuries. In the wake of Adi Amin's rule, however, the Karimajong were allowed to arm themselves with the glut of weapons Amin left behind. During recent years the sojourns of the Karimajong into Acholiland have resulted in bloodshed, fear and mistrust, with wrongs committed on both sides. "The grassroots discussions have suggested that there is strong support for dialogue where past wrongs will be brought up, reconciliation will take place and a future will be mapped out that will be positive for all," writes Dave Klassen, Uganda country co-representative.
For more information, or to contact Mennonite Central Committee, see their website at: www.mcc.org |
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