In a two-day conference to analyze the situation of conflicts and peace in the Association of Members Episcopal Conference in Eastern Africa (AMECEA) region, Bishop John Oballa Owaa has called on the faithful and people of good will to be “proactive in prevention of conflict” that are affecting a number of countries in the region.
Highlighting some of the conflict situation in the region while addressing Justice and Peace coordinators from the region on Thursday, December 2, Bishop Oballa who is Executive Board Member of AMECEA and Bishop Chairman Justice and Peace Commission for the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishop (KCCB) has expressed how people have suffered in the region because of these ongoing conflicts.
“We are saddened by the conflicts going on in some of AMECEA member countries, especially in Ethiopia. Many people have died and property destroyed in the affected regions, peace which is the glory of humanity, deserves a chance,” the Bishop disclosed asking conflicting parties to desist from ethnic profiling, arbitrary arrests and to promote peaceful co- existence.
Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ngong urged the government to prioritize peace and protection of human life, promising that AMECEA is in solidarity with Sudan as they implement new style of politics of non -violence for peace and also with South Sudan which is still implementing the revitalizing agreement.
In his statement released after the conference he noted with concern that AMECEA region has become a source, transit and destination for human trafficking encouraging border operations in identification and rescues through collaboration among actors and government agencies.
Addressing the peace and justice coordinators from AMECEA region, Bishop Oballa also condemned arms trade.
“AMECEA recognizes that disarmament, demobilization and reintegration cannot be treated simply as a set of administrative challenges,” he said.
The Prelate thanked God for protecting the region during Covid19 pandemic, asked for equity in access to drugs and vaccines, and encouraged the faithful to take vaccine so as to enhance their immunity.
“AMECEA region calls for equity in the distribution of Covid19 drugs and vaccines across the globe. We continue to encourage the faithful and other people of good will to not only take vaccine but also abide by the established practices and lifestyle necessary to enhance their immunity”.
The Bishop has urged the region which comprises of nine countries – Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, South Sudan, Sudan, Uganda, Tanzania and Zambia – to promote justice and peace in the region after a two-day conference in Kenya, Nairobi Diocese.
The Bishop referenced the letter to St. James; “This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God,” adding that we have one Lord and belong to one community.
