AU-UN Joint Special Representative/Joint Chief Mediator's message on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha and the Haj

By United Nations - African Union Mission in Darfur (
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EL FASHER (DARFUR), Sudan, October 1, 2014/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- On behalf of the African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur, I wish the people and the Government of Sudan a peaceful and joyous Eid Al-Adha and Haj Mabroor to the lucky ones.

As we commemorate this occasion, we should all remember the message of peace and sacrifice that this occasion symbolises and draw lessons from the story of Ibrahim and his son (Peace Be Upon Them).

The road to achieving peace is fraught with hurdles, hardships, tests and sacrifice. It is only when we have the will and the resolve that we are able to achieve this condition, to which we all aspire; and which holds so many benefits for all.

The ritual of Haj in its essence is a quest for peace and redemption. Redemption from worldly desires and a renewal of our commitment to Almighty to be fair and compassionate in our relationships with each other. It is also a unique lesson in the value of unity as you see millions congregating in the holy sites to know each other, trade and develop peaceful relationships.

While celebrating this year's Eid, fresh hopes are looming in the horizon. The prospects of an inclusive national dialogue and the recent discussions with armed movements in Addis Ababa breathe fresh air in the quest for peace in Darfur, and indeed all of Sudan. The progress of Darfuri internal dialogue is yet another positive step in the direction of peace stability and development of Darfur. We hope that all these efforts shall converge to achieve strides in the search for sustainable peace, democracy and development for this historic country and its good people.

On this day, we also remember our courageous peacekeepers, the men and women who sacrificed their lives for the people of Darfur.

May the goodwill of this most holy occasion inspire us all to intensify our search for an all-inclusive, just and durable peace in Darfur and, indeed, all of Sudan.

Eid Mubarak to all and Haj Mabroor to those who are participating this year!

Mohamed Ibn Chambas

UNAMID Joint Special Representative / Joint Chief Mediator for Darfur