Hon Pia Michael, Under-Secretary at South Sudan’s Ministry of Peacebuilding, reflects on the value of research in shaping effective peacebuilding strategies. He highlights how evidence-based approaches offer a scientific lens to unpack conflict drivers within and beyond national borders.

For Hon Pia, cross-border insights are essential. He points out that many policymakers are not aware of the dynamics affecting neighbouring regions and that this kind of research opens new pathways for regional cooperation. It enables leaders from different countries to come together and think collectively about conflict resolution.

He urges that findings from the Rift Valley Institute’s work be elevated to policymakers and donors alike. Unlike interventions that address symptoms, this research identifies root causes — offering a powerful tool for those designing peacebuilding and development responses in South Sudan and beyond.