Sudanese Business Leaders Commit to Advance Peace and Cooperation with South Sudan

The following is an article submitted by a Global Compact Local Network. Please contact the network representative listed below with any questions regarding its contents. 

(Khartoum, 18 November 2014) – The Global Compact Network Sudan, together with the Sudanese Businessmen and Employers Federation, launched Business for Peace (B4P) in the Republic of the Sudan. Attended by over 100 representatives from companies, business associations, Government, civil society and academia, the event mobilized the private sector to take action, engage in multi-stakeholder dialogue and collaborative efforts to advance peace and development in the country.

As an inaugural signatory of Business for Peace, the Global Compact Network Sudan organized the launch event to initiate a movement of corporate engagement, collaborative actions and contributions that support peace through responsible business practices and dialogue. Emphasizing the importance of business as a primary driver of investment and development, Mr. Ali Al-Zataari, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sudan, said that “we cannot imagine another decade of humanitarian suffering in Sudan” and stressed the need for tripartite partnership involving business, the Government and the UN.

Over two days, Sudanese companies, civil society organizations and academic experts shared good practices and discussed collaborative approaches to advance peace and development. Opening the event, H. E. Dr. Thabita Butrus Shokai, State Minister at the Ministry of Water Resources and Electricity, recognized the power of the private sector to address the key issues Sudan is facing – by developing sustainable policies, reaching for higher standards and implementing best practices and encouraged the participants to build solutions together.

During his remarks, Sir Mark Moody-Stuart, Vice-Chairman of the Global Compact Board and Chair of the B4P Steering Committee, said that together we can significantly diminish frustrations resulting from injustice, deprivation and the proliferation of arms. He deplored the existence of obstacles to trade across borders and stressed that “wherever there is a potential for strife, cross-border business is key as it helps to build common values and interests”. Dr. Tony Jaja, Foreign Affairs Secretary General of the South Sudan Business Union, also highlighted that “business is the tool for peace”.

The Sudanese Businessmen and Employers Federation, the South Sudan Business Union and the Global Compact Network Sudan pledged to work together to facilitate cooperation and trade between the two countries and called on all regional stakeholders to join them in a collaborative partnership to help achieve the fundamental goal of humanity: peace.

• See full agenda 
• View “Private Sector and Partners” Declaration signed by business leaders from 
• Learn more about the Global Compact Network Sudan

Contact

Nasser Ahmed Bur
Contact Person
Global Compact Network Sudan
bur@gc-sudan.org