Nairobi, Kenya | 18 December 2025
Article by Gerald Paul and Cathy Cheboi –Senior Reporters - Live Now Africa
South Sudanese faith leader, peace advocate, and presidential aspirant Hon. Nathaniel Garang has been awarded the International Peace Award 2025 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to interfaith leadership, peacebuilding, and social cohesion in South Sudan and the East African region.
The award was presented during a colorful and dignified ceremony held at Stedmak Garden, Karen, Nairobi, by the International College of Peace Studies (ICOPS). The award was conferred by His Eminence Dr. Kennedy Waningu, Provost of the International College of Peace Studies.
The citation recognized Hon. Garang’s “outstanding efforts and unwavering commitment that have significantly improved the lives of others through peace, faith-based leadership, and community cohesion.”
Recognition of a Lifetime of Service
Hon. Nathaniel Garang has served as Chairperson of a Faith-Based Organization in South Sudan and currently he is the Chairman of the East Africa Religious Council, where he is working directly with religious leaders from eight East African countries to promote peace, reconciliation, and interfaith cooperation across the region.
Throughout his leadership journey, Hon. Garang has remained deeply committed to fostering unity, rebuilding trust among divided communities, and advancing integrity-driven leadership. His efforts have earned him respect as a unifying figure both nationally and regionally.
Address to Guests and the Media
During the ceremony, Hon. Garang addressed invited guests and members of the press, reaffirming his lifelong dedication to peace, justice, and people-centered leadership. He emphasized the urgent need for inclusive governance, reconciliation, and the return of displaced citizens to an expected peaceful homeland of South Sudan.
Faith, Education, and Leadership
Hon. Nathaniel Garang is an ordained Anglican priest and holds:
- A Master’s Degree in Divinity from Jerusalem International University (Zambia)
- A Master’s Degree in Christian Leadership from Bible University (Germany), with its main campus in the United States of America.
Currently, He is also the chairman of East Africa Religious Council
Previously he served as The CEO of Faith Based Development Initiative (FBDI) from 2012 -2024 and in the period of 2016 – 2019 he was the vice general of Diocese of Kongor as Area Archdeaconry Administrator, among many other religious and community based leadership positions.
From War to Peace Advocacy
Born in Payom, Kongor Area, Hon. Garang’s life has been shaped by first-hand experience in conflict and resilience. He transitioned into peace advocacy, spiritual leadership, and governance reform—using his experience to resolve disputes and champion nonviolent re-solutions.
National Vision and Political Aspiration
Following South Sudan’s independence in 2011, Hon. Garang played a key role in advocating for the release of individuals detained without due legal protection during the country’s fragile transitional period.
He currently serves as the Party Chairman of the Real People’s Liberation Movement Forward (Real-SPLM/F), having been consensually endorsed by the party leadership as the official flag bearer.
Hon. Nathaniel Garang Aduotdit is seeking to become the next President of South Sudan, advocating for democratic governance anchored in the will of the people. He has consistently called for fundamental reforms in political representation, emphasizing that leadership must be elected by the citizens—not appointed by the running party, as is currently the case.
People First Agenda
At the core of his vision is the “People First” Agenda – ‘Bring Our Citizens Back Home’ Initiative, aimed at facilitating the return of South Sudanese citizens living in refugee camps and exile back to a peaceful motherland, while rebuilding peace, freedom, prosperity, dignity and opportunities for all.
About the International College of Peace Studies (ICOPS):
ICOPS is a global institution dedicated to advancing peace, education, interfaith dialogue and leadership development worldwide.
In 2020, the International College of Peace Studies (ICOPS) commenced the delivery of its specialized peace education and training programs and was formally recognized as a Partner Centre for Executive Education of the University for Peace (UPEACE), based in Costa Rica, Central America.
The University for Peace (UPEACE) is a United Nations–mandated institution dedicated exclusively to peace education worldwide. The International College of Peace Studies operates through offices based in the United States and Germany, supporting its global mission in peacebuilding, leadership, and conflict transformation.
The International College of Peace Studies (ICOPS) is also registered in Africa in the Republic of Kenya as an independent education organization, providing practical and professional training in accordance with the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Authority under the Ministry of Education. The college was founded on the principles of: Humanity, Neutrality and Impartiality.
About the International Peace Award and Why It Matters.
The International Peace Award 2025, hosted by the International College of Peace Studies (ICOPS), recognizes individuals and efforts in promoting global peace, highlighting figures like Humanitarian Diplomat Bishop Dr. Mark Kariuki, and signifies the growing importance of peacebuilding within humanitarian work, especially amidst global conflicts, aiming to inspire continued dedication to justice, conflict resolution and human well-being.
ICOPS delivers peace education, trains governments, NGOs and aligns with global peace initiatives, including the UN - with a strong focus on practical peacebuilding skills.
The Award & ICOPS:
What it is: An award celebrating peace advocates and initiatives, with the 2025 edition welcoming new leaders like Humanitarian Diplomat Bishop Dr. Mark Kariuki among others.
Who hosts: The International College of Peace Studies (ICOPS), an organization focused on peace education and training.
Significance: It highlights significant contributions to peace, linking grassroots efforts with international diplomacy and humanitarian action.
Why It Matters:
1. Amplifies Peace Efforts: It draws attention to those working for peace in challenging environments (like Gaza, Sudan, Congo, South Sudan) etc.
2. Connects Education & Action: ICOPS links academic peace studies with practical training for governments, NGOs, and diplomats, bridging theory and real-world impact.
3. Promotes Non-Violent Solutions: Aligns with global movements (like UN efforts) to build societies free from fear, promoting justice and opportunity.
4. Addresses Global Crises: The awards highlight the danger that aid workers face and emphasises on the need for peace and safety for those helping others.
Conclusion
The world’s youngest country stands to gain significantly if a faith-driven leader assumes its leadership. It is clear that the people of South Sudan are seeking a leader who can guide the nation toward peace, harmony, and stability, creating a safe and prosperous home for all its citizens
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