The warring clans of the Purosa Community in Okapa District, Eastern Highlands Province, held a peace and reconciliation program on Monday, January 6th after a long period of conflict. This initiative aims to restore peace and harmony following two years of conflict from 2021 to 2022, which resulted in the tragic loss of 13 young lives, as well as the destruction of homes, gardens, and other properties. After two attempts to establish a ceasefire by community leaders from around the country, the Purosa community is now moving towards reconciliation in an effort to restore unity and peace among its members. Attendees at the program included local elites, representatives from the two warring factions, the Okapa District Administrator, police officers, church leaders from various denominations, and residents from surrounding communities. They all gathered at the Purosa Primary School to witness this significant event. The ceremony featured the burning of firearms, bows and arrows, and other weapons used during the conflicts, as the two opposing parties came together to confess their wrongdoings and promise to avoid future violence in front of the community and key government officials. During the event, James Ogia, a prominent member of the Purosa community, remarked that despite the loss of immediate family members due to the conflict, the community’s elites united in the cities, towns, and districts to foster the peace and reconciliation ceremony. “We remained neutral and united and did not fund guns and bullets like others. The Purosa Peace and Reconciliation Ceremony serves as a reminder that in tribal conflicts, the real winners are guns, bows, arrows, and bush knives. No one emerges victorious from tribal fighting,” Mr. Ogia said. Dr. Lincoln Menda, representing the Purosa elites and the broader community, expressed gratitude for the efforts made by various parties to quell the violence. “I thank the Okapa police personnel, Acting District Administrator Mr. Dick Penai, and the CEO of the Kainantu District Development Authority for their courageous actions in engaging with the community to halt the conflict at its peak,” he said. Dr. Menda also acknowledged the dedication of Purosa elites in organizing this important event, describing it as a timely and appropriate New Year gift for the victims from both communities. He expressed hope that this official peace and reconciliation effort will be enduring, allowing the people to move forward, live in peace and harmony, and focus on initiatives that will enhance their livelihoods in a safe and supportive environment. He noted that this program would mark a historic milestone for the community.