Project Name : Strengthening Communities’ Resilience to Conflict in the Blue Nile Region

Donor : SIDA & DT institute

Period of Performance : December 19, 2024 – February 28, 2025.

Location : Blue Nile – Roseires and Damazine

Overall Goal: The Grantee aims to empower initiatives and communities to effectively address, manage, and resolve conflicts in the Blue Nile region.

Objective 1: Build the capacity of Emergency Response youth and women-led initiatives and the wider community to deal with conflicts at different stages (before, during, and after).

Activity 1.1: Conduct training workshops for 10 youth and 10 women-led initiatives providing emergency response on conflict resilience.

Activity 1.2: Facilitate community discussion sessions on conflicts management, focusing on applying conflict resilience strategies within Emergency situations.

Objective 2: Advocate for and support the activation of conflict resilience mechanism

Activity 2.1: Organize a discussion forum for key community leaders, youth and women initiatives, and other stakeholders to strengthen Emergency & sustainable conflict resilience mechanisms in the Blue Nile Region.

I. Accomplishments and Notable Successes

In late January 2025, the Partners for Peace Organization held a pivotal workshop aimed at enhancing community resilience in conflict situations. The event took place from January 28 to 30 at the Kolona Ahal Media Platform Hall in Damazine, bringing together a diverse group of participants, including 10 youth initiatives, 10 women's groups, and various active committees from the Roseiris and Damazine localities. Before engaging with participants in the workshop, the project execution team conducted a careful selection criterion The criteria focused on several key aspects:

1. Gender Balance: Ensuring an equal representation of male and female participants in the training.

2. Age Diversity: Including a range of age groups to enrich discussions and perspectives.

3. Regional Balance: Selecting participants from various regions to represent diverse backgrounds.

4. Member Effectiveness: Assessing the active role of each participant within their respective organizations.

5. Commitment: Ensuring participants were willing to commit to the entire training period and the subsequent implementation phase for achieving the expected outcomes.

The detailed composition of the participants was according to the following table:

Over three intensive days, participants engaged in discussions, learning, and collaboration, dedicating approximately seven hours each day to the pressing issues surrounding conflict management and resilience.

The workshop kicked off with a clear focus: to explore the causes of conflicts and develop innovative mechanisms for resilience. The organizers aimed to empower local entities to play a more significant role in mediation, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding. By emphasizing civic education and awareness, the workshop sought to equip participants with the skills necessary to provide rapid response services to communities affected by sudden conflicts.

Following the workshop's conclusion, we are committed to ensuring that the training's impact extends to all participants and their respective communities. To facilitate this, we developed a comprehensive joint action plan during the sessions.

The action plan began with identifying potential conflicts in the region, allowing us to strategize effectively. We mapped out entities capable of providing interventions and outlined specific activities for implementation.

Key activities include organizing community dialogues to promote communication among local groups and enhancing media engagement through collaborative programs with local radio and television stations. Additionally, we held coordination meetings with various institutions to align our efforts.

To support the execution of the action plan, we established a supervisory committee from workshop participants and created a WhatsApp group for seamless communication.

We are optimistic that these initiatives will sustain the training's impact, fostering collaboration and conflict resolution within the communities. We look forward to witnessing the positive outcomes in the months ahead.

Day One: Understanding the Nature of Conflict

As the first day unfolded, participants delved into the intricate concept of conflict. They began with an in-depth discussion that examined the linguistic definition of conflict, its causes, and the various levels and stages it encompasses. By analyzing these elements from multiple perspectives—economic, political, environmental, and technological—participants gained a comprehensive understanding of how these factors intertwine and influence conflict dynamics.

To foster collaboration, attendees were divided into small groups, allowing them to focus on specific aspects of conflict. This approach encouraged thoughtful discussions, enabling participants to share insights and experiences. They explored how understanding the nature of conflicts impacts their roles and responsibilities in conflict management. Through this collective analysis, they identified unique challenges and obstacles that hinder effective intervention.

By the end of the day, participants had achieved several outcomes. They developed a clearer understanding of what constitutes conflict and reviewed models from past experiences. They also recognized the importance of internal conflict levels and their role in the emergence of broader societal issues. Most notably, they linked the rising tide of hate speech, particularly in media narratives, to previous, current, and potential conflicts in the region.

Day Two: The Role of Hate Speech

The second day shifted focus to the insidious nature of hate speech and its impact on conflict escalation. Participants engaged in discussions about the motives behind hate speech, its indicators, and the adequacy of opposing and rejecting such rhetoric. They were once again divided into groups, each tasked with examining potential conflicts and their connections to hate speech, as well as the broader implications for regional stability.

As discussions progressed, the workshop transitioned to the essence of conflict management. Participants explored the principles, objectives, and steps involved in effectively managing conflicts. They reviewed past experiences in conflict management, evaluating successes and failures to glean insights for future efforts.

By the conclusion of Day Two, participants had gained a deeper understanding of hate speech and its societal ramifications. They

identified shortcomings in previous conflict management strategies and began to innovate new mechanisms to address these failures. The collaborative environment fostered creativity and critical thinking, enabling participants to envision more effective approaches to conflict resolution.

Day Three: Strategies for Conflict Management

The final day of the workshop was dedicated to practical conflict management strategies. Participants examined various models of negotiation, mediation, and community dialogues, focusing on how these strategies could be applied to both individual and organized conflicts.

In groups, participants discussed methods for managing the five identified models of conflict, emphasizing negotiation skills and their role in reducing tensions. They evaluated past negotiation experiences, reflecting on what worked and what did not, while also exploring community dialogues as a vital mechanism for fostering understanding and cooperation.

As the workshop drew to a close, participants left with a wealth of knowledge and practical skills. They recognized the importance of negotiation and community engagement in conflict management, equipping them to better address the challenges faced by their communities.

- Community discussion sessions on conflicts management:

four community discussion sessions were conducted which in both Ad-Damazine and Er-Roseiris, held across four distinct areas where two sessions were conducted on Thursday 6th of February and the other two sessions were conducted on Saturday on 8th February. Each session aimed to engage 15 participants, with a specific focus on conflict management and the implementation of resilience strategies during emergency situations. While the estimated total number of participants was projected to be around 60, the actual turnout exceeded expectations, with 68 individuals actively participating in these discussions.

These sessions provided a valuable platform for community members to share their experiences and insights regarding conflict dynamics in their regions. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the discussions aimed to equip participants with practical tools and strategies to effectively manage conflicts and enhance their resilience in the face of ongoing challenges. The increased participation reflected a strong community interest in addressing these critical issues and highlighted the importance of collective efforts in building a more peaceful and resilient environment.

First Session In the area of Al-Zohour neighborhood hold in - Al-Zohour Youth Center:

The discussions at the Al-Zohour Youth Center opened with a focus on the pressing issues faced by displaced individuals due to ongoing conflicts. Samah Ahmed highlighted the severe economic hardships that have arisen, which have not only affected the livelihoods of these individuals but have also led to societal problems such as theft and marginalization. The financial struggles faced by displaced families have created a ripple effect, manifesting in various negative behaviors within the community.

Educational barriers emerged as another significant concern. Aida Mohammed pointed out the resistance displaced families encountered when attempting to enroll their children in local schools. Many community members believed that education should be deprioritized during times of conflict, leading to hostility between displaced and local children. This tension was particularly

evident at the Damazine Martyrs School, where increased violence and bullying were reported. The prevalence of drug use among youth was also noted as a troubling consequence of ongoing conflict, underscoring the urgent need for safe spaces and supportive programs for children.

In response to these challenges, community leaders like Mohammed Abkar emphasized the necessity of behavioral monitoring and support for students amid rising hate speech and societal tensions. Muhand Mohammed shared a success story from an emergency education school that managed to integrate displaced and local youth effectively. This initiative highlighted the importance of psychological support and reconciliation in fostering a sense of community.

To address these issues, participants recommended establishing programs aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence and awareness among children. They stressed the need for equitable aid distribution, sensitive to the dynamics of the community, and suggested activating community platforms, such as mosques, to encourage dialogue and tackle the root causes of conflict.

Second Session in Al-Hijra neighborhood area hold in - Al-Hijra Youth Center:

The second session at the Al-Hijra Youth Center delved into the nature of conflict in the region. Ibrahim Hussein pointed out that the ongoing conflict, which began in 2011, was largely horizontal, rooted in societal acceptance issues among various groups. Babikir Adam raised alarming concerns about the exploitation of children in criminal activities, a grim reality exacerbated by the conflict.

Education and awareness emerged as critical themes during this session. Ibtihal Habib stressed the importance of early education on the dangers of hate speech and the need for fostering acceptance among youth. Omar Adam argued for a dual approach to conflict resolution that addressed both vertical and horizontal societal issues, recognizing the complexity of the conflicts at hand.

The recommendations from this session included simplifying concepts of acceptance and humanity to facilitate better understanding within communities. Engaging influential figures was deemed essential to bridge gaps between civil society and youth, while enhancing media involvement was seen as crucial for spreading awareness and promoting peaceful coexistence.

Third Session Qanis Sharq area hold in - Qanies East:

At the Qanies East session, Widad Daif Allah made a crucial distinction between conflict and fighting, noting that misunderstandings often serve as the root of conflicts. Tahani Omar shared insights into the emotional fragility within communities, a direct consequence of ongoing strife.

Youth involvement in conflict resolution was another focal point. Qasim Awad observed early signs of conflict and noted the youth's attempts to mediate, which were often met with indifference from authorities. Hassan Etnein highlighted the difficulties faced by youth striving to remain neutral, as they were frequently labeled as biased.

Participants recommended monitoring and documenting

conflicts to better understand their root causes. They emphasized the importance of reinforcing reconciliation efforts and providing security guarantees for reintegration. Encouraging transparency in discussions about societal issues was also deemed vital for fostering genuine solutions.

Fourth Session The northern neighborhood in the city of Al-Rasirs in Suba Area:

The discussions in the Suba Area centered on the causes of conflict. Nasser Abdullah identified property disputes and misunderstandings as primary catalysts for conflicts, particularly among displaced individuals. Hanan Ayoub pointed out the urgent need for effective crisis management strategies when addressing the challenges posed by displaced populations.

Educational initiatives took center stage as Maryam Omar shared experiences of children identifying themselves through tribal affiliations. This highlighted the necessity for a shift in identity narratives to foster unity. Howayda Ahmed advocated for proactive measures to prepare communities for potential conflicts, emphasizing the importance of readiness.

The recommendations from this session included engaging families in teaching children about acceptance and peaceful coexistence. Participants suggested fostering regular community meetings to bridge understanding and develop collaborative solutions. Strengthening women's initiatives was also seen as crucial in creating supportive environments for families.

Conclusion

The series of discussions underscored the critical need for comprehensive strategies to tackle the multifaceted challenges arising from conflicts within the community. Key recommendations included enhancing educational programs, fostering dialogue among different societal groups, and creating safe spaces for youth and displaced individuals. By addressing economic hardships, promoting acceptance, and ensuring equitable aid distribution, communities can work towards achieving sustainable peace and coexistence.

Through these collaborative efforts, the hope is to cultivate an environment where youth can thrive, communities can heal, and the cycle of conflict can be broken. The discussions served as a vital platform for sharing insights, experiences, and recommendations, paving the way for a more harmonious future.

- Discussion forum for key community leaders, youth and women initiatives:

On February 19th and 20th, 2025, the Partners for Peace organization hosted an impactful forum at the Civil Administrative Hall in Ad-Damazine, Blue Nile Region. The event gathered 34 participants (24 men and 10 women), aged 22 to 67, from diverse backgrounds, including community leaders, youth and women initiative representatives, and other stakeholders. United by a common objective, they aimed to enhance emergency and sustainable conflict resilience strategies in the region. The forum served as a dynamic platform for sharing ideas, experiences, and approaches to promote peace and stability in an area frequently affected by tensions.

The text outlines key criteria for effective training or work in forums, emphasizing the importance of absorption indicators to

ensure all participants have a clear understanding of the subject matter. It highlights the necessity of engaging participants in the program's objectives and expected outcomes. Additionally, it suggests including a specialist to summarize contributions and provide feedback to the facilitator for strategy development.

The text also addresses significant challenges faced during the forum's implementation. The first challenge was securing funding, which was managed through the organization's resources and coordination with suppliers for training materials. The second challenge involved selecting the appropriate local administrations to participate in the training. This was effectively handled through coordination with the local administration in the region to connect with representatives from the targeted areas, significantly enhancing the attendance of active participants at the forum.

Detailed data of the participants

The forum began with the facilitator setting the stage by defining the concept of conflict. This opening sparked a lively discussion, as participants shared their personal experiences and insights. Mohammed Hamid from the Tawaasol organization was among the first to speak. He emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence within institutions, lamenting that many organizations fail to reflect this principle in their workspaces. He pointed out the lack of research and records on the subject, which, he argued, hinders progress in building a culture of peace.

Hanan, a participant from the SORD organization, added a critical perspective. She noted that even when research and records exist, they often remain hidden away in cupboards, unpublished and

inaccessible to the public. She passionately argued that if these valuable resources were made available to the broader community, they could serve as powerful tools in addressing and resolving societal issues.

Mohammed Abakar, a teacher, brought a unique viewpoint to the discussion. He shared those conflicts often begin as small, seemingly insignificant problems among students. While the students might quickly forget these issues, parents sometimes hold onto them, allowing minor grievances to grow into larger, more complex disputes that can escalate into tribal conflicts.

The facilitator then guided the conversation through the various types of conflicts that occur within societies, ranging from family disputes to national crises. Mohammed Ahmed contributed to this discussion by highlighting the lack of legal awareness as a significant factor in community conflicts. He explained that many people are unaware of their rights, which often leads to misunderstandings and disputes.

Yaser Omer introduced a more analytical approach, advocating for scientific interventions in conflict resolution. He proposed using data and empirical evidence to better understand and address the root causes of conflicts, suggesting that this method could lead to more effective and sustainable solutions.

As the forum progressed, the facilitator introduced the concept of the 'tree problem,' a metaphor for understanding the underlying causes of conflicts. She divided the participants into small groups and provided them with real case studies to analyze and discuss. This hands-on activity encouraged collaboration and creativity, as the groups worked together to develop practical solutions.

One of the most impactful suggestions to emerge from the group discussions was the establishment of peace clubs across the seven localities. These clubs would serve as safe spaces where community members—men, women, and youth—could come together to engage in peace-building activities. The idea was met with enthusiasm, as participants saw it as a tangible way to foster a culture of peace and resilience within their communities.

The facilitator continued to elaborate on various peace mechanisms, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures, community engagement, and continuous education. Her insights provided a roadmap for building a more peaceful and resilient society, where conflicts are not just managed but prevented.

By the end of the forum, the participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer understanding of the steps needed to strengthen conflict resilience in the Blue Nile Region. The event was not just a meeting of minds but a catalyst for change, inspiring hope and action among all who attended.

The activities completed during the project effectively aligned with and fulfilled our targeted objectives in several key areas, demonstrating a commitment to building resilience and enhancing community engagement in the Blue Nile Region.

Skill Development in Emergency Response

One of the primaries focuses of the project was skill development in emergency response. We conducted a training workshop titled “Emergency Response for Resilience in Conflicts,” designed to equip participants with essential skills for navigating emergency situations. Over 24 hours of intensive training, participants not only learned theoretical concepts but also engaged in practical applications of emergency response strategies. The involvement of 31 dedicated participants from 10 women’s groups and 10 youth organizations highlighted a strong commitment to enhancing their capabilities. This active engagement facilitated a deeper understanding of how to manage crises effectively, laying the groundwork for improved community resilience.

Knowledge Dissemination

A crucial goal of the workshop was to ensure that the insights gained would be disseminated within the participants' grassroots organizations. This collaborative approach allowed for the benefits of the training to extend beyond the workshop, fostering a wider impact within the community. By empowering participants to share their knowledge, we cultivated a network of change agents who could positively influence their communities. This empowerment was instrumental in creating a culture of learning and adaptation, further strengthening the community's capacity to respond to emergencies.

Enhancing Conflict Resilience Understanding

The workshop significantly contributed to participants' understanding of conflict resilience. By exploring various strategies and frameworks, attendees developed a nuanced perspective on addressing conflicts, which is crucial for fostering a resilient community. This enhanced awareness was essential for creating a culture of resilience, enabling communities to withstand and recover from crises more effectively. Participants left with broadened perspectives on conflict dynamics, equipping them to better navigate the complexities of their environments.

Community Engagement and Dialogue

To promote community engagement, we organized four dynamic discussion sessions in Ad-Damazine and Er-Roseiris. These sessions provided a platform for community leaders and youth leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue about conflict management. Focusing on identifying effective conflict management strategies, these discussions emphasized practical applications in emergency situations. By facilitating these conversations, we ensured that participants could collaboratively develop actionable solutions to the challenges faced by their communities, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Building Stronger Community Ties

The project also aimed to build stronger community ties through collaboration among leaders. By bringing together diverse community leaders and representatives, we fostered collaboration and shared understanding. This collective effort strengthened community ties and enhanced overall resilience. Our initiatives reflected a commitment to building resilient communities capable of addressing the complexities of conflict and emergencies. By empowering individuals and fostering collaboration, we created a lasting impact that enhanced community well-being.

Strengthening Emergency & Sustainable Conflict Resilience Mechanisms

The project included a forum that brought together 34 participants from diverse backgrounds, including community leaders, youth and women initiatives, and other stakeholders. This diverse representation ensured a holistic approach to identifying and addressing conflict resilience mechanisms. Discussions and group activities focused on real case studies, allowing participants to analyze and propose practical solutions. A direct outcome of this forum was the establishment of peace clubs across seven localities, aimed at fostering long-term peace and resilience.

Defining and Understanding Conflict

The forum began with the facilitator defining the concept of conflict, setting the stage for comprehensive discussions. Participants shared personal experiences and insights, leading to a deeper understanding of various types of conflicts, from familial disputes to national crises. This foundational knowledge was crucial for developing effective conflict resolution strategies, enabling participants to address conflicts more effectively in their communities.

Promoting Peaceful Coexistence

The importance of peaceful coexistence within institutions was emphasized during the forum. Mohammed Hamid from the Tawaasol organization highlighted the lack of research and records on peaceful coexistence in workplaces, underscoring the need for institutional changes to reflect and promote peace. This discussion aligned with the forum's objective to enhance conflict resilience and foster a culture of understanding and cooperation.

Utilizing Research and Data

Leveraging research and data for conflict resolution was another key objective of the forum. Hanan from the SORD organization pointed out the underutilization of existing research and records. Yaser Omer advocated for scientific interventions using data to address conflicts. These discussions highlighted the importance of empirical evidence in developing sustainable solutions, encouraging participants to consider data-driven approaches in their peace-building efforts.

Addressing Root Causes of Conflicts

Understanding and addressing the root causes of conflicts was a fundamental objective of the forum. The facilitator introduced the 'tree problem' metaphor, guiding participants to analyze underlying causes. Group activities involving real case studies helped participants identify root issues and propose actionable solutions, such as the establishment of peace clubs. This focus on root causes was essential for developing long-term strategies to mitigate conflicts in the region.

Enhancing Legal Awareness

Increasing legal awareness to prevent conflicts was another important goal. Mohammed Ahmed highlighted the lack of legal awareness as a significant factor in community conflicts, emphasizing the need for education on legal rights to prevent misunderstandings and disputes. This discussion reinforced the importance of legal literacy in fostering peaceful coexistence and reducing conflict.

Fostering Community Engagement

The forum aimed to engage the community in peace-building activities, culminating in the suggestion to establish peace clubs across seven localities. These clubs were designed to be safe spaces for community members to engage in peace-building activities, fostering a culture of peace and resilience. By creating these platforms, we encouraged ongoing dialogue and collaboration among community members.

Providing a Roadmap for Peace

Finally, the forum sought to provide a clear roadmap for building a peaceful and resilient society. The facilitator elaborated on various peace mechanisms, emphasizing proactive measures, community engagement, and continuous education. Her insights equipped participants with a comprehensive roadmap for preventing and managing conflicts, ensuring they left with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer understanding of the steps needed to strengthen conflict resilience in the Blue Nile Region.

By the end of the project, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer understanding of the necessary steps to strengthen conflict resilience in the Blue Nile Region. The activities completed successfully met our targeted objectives by providing essential training, fostering knowledge dissemination, enhancing understanding of conflict resilience, promoting community engagement, and building stronger ties among community members. These collective efforts contributed to the development of resilient communities that are better equipped to handle emergencies and conflicts, ultimately fostering a more peaceful and cohesive society.

I. Feedback

Mohammed Hamid from the Tawaasol organization was among the first to speak. He emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence within institutions, lamenting that many organizations fail to reflect this principle in their workspaces. He pointed out the lack of research and records on the subject, which, he argued, hinders progress in building a culture of peace.

Hanan, a participant from the SORD organization, added a critical perspective. She noted that even when research and records exist, they often remain hidden away in cupboards, unpublished and inaccessible to the public. She passionately argued that if these valuable resources were made available to the broader community, they could serve as powerful tools in addressing and resolving societal issues.

Addition to that, the pre- and post-tests conducted during the workshop revealed valuable insights into the participants' knowledge and skills. A significant portion of the participants already possessed a strong foundational understanding of conflict identification, largely derived from their personal experiences in handling conflicts, even if these experiences were not at an advanced or professional level. This prior knowledge served as a solid base for their learning.

Following the workshop, the post-test results demonstrated a notable enhancement in their understanding and skills (94% increase, as 29 out of 31 participants scored higher in post-tests compared to pre-tests). The training sessions successfully built upon their existing knowledge, adding new insights and practical tools to their repertoire. Participants reported that the workshop not only reinforced their prior understanding but also introduced them to more structured and effective approaches to conflict management. This combination of prior experience and newly acquired knowledge equipped them with a more comprehensive and nuanced perspective on the subject.

Overall, the workshop proved to be highly effective in bridging the gap between experiential knowledge and formal training, resulting in a measurable improvement in the participants' ability to identify and address conflicts.

The feedback and recommendations from participants at the joint conference highlight the critical need for establishing community peace clubs in the seven localities within the region. This initiative aims to focus on early warning systems and conflict prevention strategies.

The anticipated collaborative effort for DTI will involve creating a long-term partnership with the Center for Peace Studies and the Organization of Partners for Peace. Given that DTI is dedicated to scientific research, conducting a study on the causes of conflict and supporting social research is a strategic solution that can be pursued collectively.

Moving forward, it is essential to prioritize these recommendations to foster a more peaceful and resilient community.

II. Challenges, Mitigations, and Lessons Learned

The challenges that faced us during the project were:

· Challenge: The security conditions

· Mitigation: Coordination with the security sectors

What the organization learned through the project was that the decision to increase the number of participants in the workshop from 25 to 31 had been made after careful consideration of the need to involve additional stakeholders. This adjustment had been driven by the recognition that broader representation would enhance the workshop's effectiveness and enrich the discussions. By including more voices, the workshop aimed to foster a more dynamic and engaging environment that would lead to more innovative and comprehensive solutions.

Expanding the participant base allowed for a diverse range of perspectives and expertise to be brought to the table. This diversity had been crucial in ensuring that all relevant dimensions of the proposed discussions were addressed. With more participants, the workshop could delve deeper into various topics, exploring different viewpoints and experiences that might otherwise have been overlooked. This inclusivity not only encouraged robust dialogue but also facilitated a collaborative atmosphere where participants felt empowered to share their insights and ideas.

As a result of this increased engagement, the quality of the proposals presented during the workshop significantly improved. Participants were able to collaborate more effectively, drawing on their collective knowledge and experiences to craft solutions that were not only innovative but also practical and applicable in real-world contexts. The comprehensive nature of the discussions ensured that the final outputs reflected a thorough understanding of the issues at hand, leading to more effective and actionable recommendations.

Furthermore, the enhanced participant mix contributed to the overall comprehensiveness of the workshop's outcomes. By addressing various dimensions of the topics discussed, the workshop was able to generate solutions that considered multiple factors and potential impacts. This holistic approach had been instrumental in developing strategies that were not only effective in the short term but also sustainable in the long run.

Ultimately, the decision to expand the number of participants from 25 to 31 proved to be a pivotal move that greatly benefited the workshop. The increased diversity of thought and experience enriched the discussions, leading to high-quality proposals and comprehensive solutions. This adjustment underscored the importance of inclusivity in collaborative settings, demonstrating that engaging a broader range of stakeholders could significantly enhance the effectiveness and impact of collective efforts.

III. Project Impact and Project outcome :

The overall impact of the peacebuilding project in Sudan can be observed through both immediate and long-term changes within targeted communities. By focusing on empowering local leaders and fostering conflict resolution skills, the project has laid a foundation for sustainable peace and community resilience.

Community Leaders' Conflict Resolution Skills

One of the most significant outcomes of the project was the enhancement of conflict resolution skills among community leaders. Through targeted training sessions and workshops, these leaders learned various techniques for managing disputes and facilitating dialogue within their communities. For instance, they were equipped with negotiation strategies and mediation skills that enable them to address conflicts before they escalate into violence. As a result, community leaders now possess the tools necessary to foster a culture of dialogue and understanding, which is crucial in a context marked by historical tensions and divisions.

In practical terms, this has led to tangible changes in how disputes are handled. For example, in Ganniss community, a previously contentious issue regarding resource allocation was resolved through a mediated discussion led by a trained community leader. This not only prevented potential violence but also strengthened trust among community members. The leaders' newfound skills have created a ripple effect, encouraging more collaborative approaches to problem-solving and enhancing social cohesion within the community.

Youth Leaders' Vision for Conflict Management

The project also had a profound impact on youth leaders, who emerged with a clearer vision for addressing conflicts and a better understanding of the underlying causes of these issues. Through workshops focused on conflict identification and resolution, youth leaders learned to analyze conflicts critically and engage constructively with their peers. This empowered them to take proactive roles in their communities, advocating for peaceful resolutions rather than resorting to violence.

For example, in Ad-Damazine and Er-Roseiris localities, youth leaders organized community sessions with their peers to discuss pressing issues such as ethnic tensions. This initiative not only helped to de-escalate tensions but also fostered a sense of ownership among youth in the peacebuilding process. As these young leaders continue to develop their skills, they are likely to become influential agents of change, promoting a culture of peace and understanding that can benefit Sudanese communities in the long run.

The peacebuilding project has made significant strides in equipping community and youth leaders with essential skills for conflict resolution. These changes have not only addressed immediate issues within targeted communities but have also set the stage for long-term stability and peace across Sudan. By investing in local leadership and fostering a culture of dialogue, the project has created a pathway for sustainable development and social harmony.

IV. Success Stories Expansion (Linked to Project Objectives)

1. Partnership with Blue Nile University’s Peace Center

Achieved Objective: Enhancing community conflict management skills (Project Objective 1).

Details:

- A P4P trainee became a certified trainer at the Peace Center, conducting workshops for 20 local leaders in North Soba .

- Topics covered:

- Conflict prediction (pre-conflict).

- Tension de-escalation (during conflict).

- Social reconciliation (post-conflict).

Link to Project Goals:

- Aligns with Objective 1.1 (capacity building) through a train-the-trainer model.

- Ensures sustainability beyond project lifespan.

2. Al-Zohour Youth Center’s Initiatives for IDPs

Achieved Objective: Strengthening social cohesion (Project Objective 2).

Details:

- Trained youth organized 4 dialogue sessions between IDPs and host communities in Damazine.

- Applied early warning tools learned in the project, such as:

- Monitoring hate speech rumors.

- Establishing communication channels between community leaders.

Results:

- 40% reduction in tensions in IDP camps (per local reports).

Link to Project Goals:

- Meets Objective 1.2 (emergency conflict management sessions).

- Supports Objective 2 (sustainable resilience mechanisms).

3. Quadripartite Alliance for Peace

Achieved Objective: Multi-stakeholder collaboration (Project Objective 2).

Details:

- Alliance members:

1. P4P (training expertise).

2. "Wai" Women’s Initiative (community outreach).

3. "Kolona Ahal" Media Platform (peace messaging).

4. African Youth Organization (field implementation).

- Joint activities:

- 3 workshops on local conflict analysis.

- Media campaign “Two Words Can Prevent Anger” to counter hate speech.

Link to Project Goals:

- Achieves Objective 2.1 (advocacy forums).

- Demonstrates synergy among diverse actors.