Training on Climate Change Effects and Links to Environment, Peace, and Security in Maluth County, South Sudan
Climate change is a pressing issue that affects not only the environment but also peace and security in many regions around the world. In Maluth County of South Sudan’s Upper Nile state, the Civil Society Coalition on Natural Resources (CSNR) recently conducted a training workshop to raise awareness on the impacts of climate change and its links to the environment, peace, and security.
The training, supported by the Norwegian Peoples’ Aid (NPA), brought together representatives from various sectors including county authorities, agriculture, forestry, fisheries, veterinary units, trade unions, women, and youth. The participants learned about the science of climate change, its causes, evidence of global climate change, and mitigation measures.
Charles Judo, the chairperson of CSCNR, emphasized the importance of understanding the causes and pathways for climate-related environmental and security risks. He highlighted the need for stakeholders to grasp the connections between climate change, environment, peace, and security to address challenges such as worsening livelihood conditions, migration, resource mismanagement, and elite exploitation.
David Deng Chan, the Director of Fisheries resources in Maluth County, stressed the importance of conserving and utilizing natural resources sustainably. Guod Mayik, the Director of agriculture, pointed out the visible effects of climate change in Maluth County, such as desertification, soil degradation, and oil pollution leading to crop failure.
Participants in the workshop expressed their satisfaction with the training, stating that they gained new knowledge on climate change science and its impacts. South Sudan, being highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, faces challenges like increased temperatures and extreme climate events, impacting food security and security.
The link between climate change and security risks was also highlighted, with climate-related livestock losses contributing to conflicts like cattle raiding and communal violence. Understanding these complex interactions between climate change and social, economic, environmental, demographic, and political factors is crucial in addressing the challenges posed by climate change in South Sudan.
As we continue to witness the effects of climate change globally, it is essential for communities and stakeholders to come together, raise awareness, and take action to mitigate the impacts on the environment, peace, and security. The training conducted by CSNR in Maluth County serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing climate change and its interconnected impacts for a sustainable future.