Role of Non-Governmental Organizations on Conflict Mitigation in the Republic Of South Sudan: A Case of Oxfam

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in South Sudan face many challenges related to humanitarian intervention. Large numbers of internally displaced (IDPs) and those fleeing conflict need humanitarian relief. NGOs are incapable of providing much needed help in time whenever conflict erupts. Attempts by International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) to carryout needs assessment in times of humanitarian crisis is reason enough to warrant conflict mitigation. This study will be undertaken to establish the role of NGOs on conflict mitigation in South Sudan. The specific objectives will be; The study will be conducted in in three states where some of the NGOs are positioned. This study will target technical staffs that are in key positions for decision making processes of these NGOs. Structured/semi-structured questionnaires, one to one interview and will be used to collect the data. The data will be analysed and presented in the form of bar charts, pie chart and tables. NGOs are often seen as active participants in conflict mitigation. Therefore, it is important for NGOs to maintain their independence without losing trust of the conflicting parties including the State. NGOs should work in co-operation and co-ordination with each other to reduce duplication in their activities. In this process NGOs should not lose their individual identities. Collaboration and networking of NGOs is a key factor in lobbying and advocacy at a higher level. NGOs should not limit their scope of work to mere conflict mitigation, but expand it to address the root causes of conflict and enhance the process of peace building. Hence, the role of the NGOs in conflict mitigation is based on their presence at the ground level as actors with a reservoir of good will generated through years of development and rehabilitation work. Apart from creating a congenial atmosphere for early warning systems, where the prospects for such systems are visible at the level of conflict, NGOs can play a key role in many intractable conflicts. Conflict mitigation is critical for sustained peace. No organization is perhaps more equipped than NGOs in undertaking this task. However, in order to play a more effective role in conflict mitigation, NGOs may have to re-orient themselves with the requisite attitude and skills, which of course should be seen as an additional element of their development work. Based on the findings the following recommendations were made; NGOs should raise adequate funds for conflict mitigation purpose. This will enable the effective and responsive approach to conflict resolution. NGOs should impress upon donors to mobilize their resources for better improved logistics required during conflict mitigation activities. NGOs should deploy highly skilled and motivated staff for effective conflict mitigation process. NGOs should invest more resources for capacity building activities at different levels. It should involve the training of its own staff, identifying their weakness during conflict mitigation.