Susan in an interview with Eye Radio - US Embassy Juba on Monday 8, 2013

The U.S ambassador to South Sudan is urging every South Sudanese to individually play a role in promoting peace and harmony in the country.

Ambassador Susan Page said a united and prosperous South Sudan is still possible if all citizens work together in achieving peaceful coexistence.

Ambassador Page issued a public message this week calling for forgiveness among different communities in the country.

“Now you have the choice, as individuals, to be the champions of peace, unity, dialogue, and reconciliation based on the ideals on which your nation was founded,” she said in the recorded message.

“Please remember that while each act of violence may ignite retribution, each step towards peace offers the chance to rebuild.

“In these incredibly difficult times, when so many of our friends and neighbors are suffering and in danger, it’s hard not to lose hope.

“It’s hard not to be weary of more violence and more conflict but we cannot give up on the dream of a united South Sudan, the dream of the South Sudanese people.”

Ambassador Susan Page echoed President Obama, saying reconciliation is not a matter of ignoring a cruel past, but a means of confronting it with inclusion, generosity and truth.