I would just like to write a short post to publicly thank Patrick Gavin and Text Link Ads. (Text Links Ads has generously donated some inventory to our cause, giving us much needed exposure.)

Of course we are indebted to all of our supporters and donators!

Recognizing the opportunity and urgency for action to end the 19-year old war in northern Uganda, Africa Faith and Justice Network is launching the Uganda Conflict Action Network to pressure the U.S. government to advocate and support peace negotiations in the region. United in solidarity with the hopes and visions of millions of Ugandans, Uganda-CAN will work to build a campaign of compassionate citizens to combat this unnecessary human suffering and help bring healing and renewal to the Great Lakes Region.

Movements have arisen to call for attention to other crises in the Great Lakes Region such as the genocide in Darfur and conflict transformation in southern Sudan. Responsible foreign policy toward the region should take into consideration the linkages between the various crises. Uganda-CAN will work with and as part of these movements to push for international attention and effective action in the Great Lakes Region.

At present, there is a great opportunity for international action, especially from the U.S. government, to act to support efforts to end the war in northern Uganda, spurring peace and renewal throughout the Great Lakes Region. Jan Egeland, the UN undersecretary-general for humanitarian affairs, recently told the BBC that this is a historic chance to end the war.

It is critical that the U.S. use its clout with both the Ugandan and Sudanese governments to support, develop and facilitate peace negotiations. In addition, the U.S. must increase resources to protection and relief for the vulnerable children and more than 1.6 million internally-displaced peoples.

Yet, none of this will happen without pressure from the ground.

Today Uganda-CAN is asking you to join us as we raise awareness about this hidden war and demand action for its peaceful resolution. Together, with your funding, time and support, we will work that the international community can no longer ignore such gross human tragedy.

Together, we can make a difference as we push for a more responsible global citizenship that hears and answers to the suffering of the most poor and vulnerable of our world.

Explore our website to learn more and sign-up to become a part of Uganda-CAN.