In a message for the start of the Muslim holy
month of Ramadan, the head of the African Union – United Nations Mission
in Darfur (Unamid), Martin Uhomoibhi, expresses the hope “that the
observance of Ramadan this year shall bring to us the strength and the
earnest will to work together to bring about peace in Darfur”.

In a statement issued on the eve of Ramadan, Uhomoibhi says: “On
behalf of Unamid and indeed on my own behalf, I would like to extend my
best wishes to the Government and people of Sudan, on the occasion of
the holy month of Ramadan.

“Ramadan is a month of worship, reflection and reconciliation; where
the basic tenets of tolerance and forgiveness are integral to the
practice of fasting. I therefore hope that the observance of Ramadan
this year shall bring to us the strength and the earnest will to work
together to bring about peace in Darfur.

“Let the people of Darfur and Sudan, in general, translate the
essence of Islam as a religion of peace, love and compassion into action
by engaging in a constructive and meaningful dialogue that leads to
peace, prosperity and a better life for present and future generations.

“In this spirit, I would like to renew Unamid’s commitment to exert
all possible efforts within its capability, as well as doing my utmost
as Joint Chief Mediator, to support and facilitate such efforts in order
to help the parties to the conflict to achieve a viable lasting peace
in this region.“May the spirit of this holy month inspire and give us the desire,
strength, as well as the determination to achieve durable peace and
stability in Darfur. Ramadan Kareem,” Uhomoibhi concludes.

Dabanga Sudan