Khartoum — The Government of Southern Sudan (GOSS) has called on churches to assist the regional administration in preaching peace building, reconciliation initiatives and development related messages.

The government says the church, like in the past wars should continue preaching peace and reconciliation initiatives particularly in tribal stricken areas across the regions, said GOSS minister of information and broadcasting, Paul Mayom.

The churches should also be involved in helping the government to address social and economic challenges the region is facing, he added.

He stated that the church should try to get involved in sectors like agriculture, education and health adding that the involvement of the church in economic sectors would help alleviate and reduce poverty in the region.

"Most of the religious leaders greatly contributed to the liberation struggle of the South Sudan and to the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement," he said in remarks carried by the Sudan Tribune.

"Churches are agents of development and peace building in any country," he added saying his government greatly seeks their involvement in settling local disputes.