Call for Peace Between Cattle Herders and Farmers in South Sudan

Community leaders in Lainya County, South Sudan, are advocating for peace between cattle herders and farmers following escalating tensions due to resource competition. The UNMISS-hosted grassroots engagement emphasized the need for conflict resolution and community safety, highlighting vital issues facing displaced populations. Authorities are urged to address land occupation by pastoralists to support agricultural activities and ensure public security.

Community leaders have urged for harmony between cattle herders and farmers following a grassroots meeting hosted by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). This plea is particularly significant in Lainya County, where fertile land is essential for the production of staple crops. Nearly half of the households are engaged in agriculture, contributing to local food security.

However, the intrusion of armed pastoralists seeking grazing land has severely disrupted agricultural activities, leading to tensions over scarce resources. Thomas Ladu, a local elder from Kupera Payam, expressed the grave concerns of the community, stating that the herders have destroyed personal crops and taken food without consent, rendering farmers vulnerable.

Discussions at the UNMISS engagement stressed the urgent need for solutions to mitigate these conflicts and foster reconciliation. Roosevelt Gbamie Cooper, a Civil Affairs Officer at UNMISS, highlighted the importance of sharing information about South Sudan’s political landscape, including pertinent elements of the Revitalized Peace Agreement aimed at establishing peace and order.

The gathering brought together over 90 participants, comprising community leaders, youth, women’s representatives, and elders, who engaged in debates to resolve disputes and promote communal development. A significant issue raised was the plight of individuals displaced by previous conflicts, as new returnees face threats from pastoralists, preventing their reintegration into their former communities.

Edward Taban, Kupera Payam Director, articulated the challenges posed by the unlawful occupation of land by pastoralists migrating from Jonglei State and Terekeka County. He emphasized the imperative for pastoralists to vacate civilian areas to allow farming activities to resume, thereby ensuring community safety. The hope remains that new county authorities will facilitate resolutions to the ongoing challenges faced by both farmers and pastoralists.

In conclusion, the grassroots engagement led by UNMISS highlights urgent concerns regarding the escalating conflicts between farmers and pastoralists in South Sudan. With crucial discussions focused on the challenges posed to agriculture and community safety, the call for peaceful resolutions is paramount. The involvement of local leaders, alongside support from new county authorities, presents an opportunity to foster harmony and empower communities in Lainya County.

Original Source: www.zawya.com