Community Leaders Urge Peace Between Farmers and Cattle Herders in South Sudan
Community leaders in Lainya County are urging for peace between cattle herders and farmers at a UNMISS-hosted engagement, highlighting escalating tensions over agricultural land and resources. Local residents face threats from armed herders, with significant impacts on their crops and safety. The meeting aimed to facilitate dialogue and promote reconciliation among community members and officials.
Leaders in Lainya County are advocating for peace between cattle herders and farmers during a grassroots engagement organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). The region’s fertile land has historically supported extensive agricultural production; however, this is severely threatened by armed pastoralists seeking grazing areas for their cattle. The rising tensions and conflicts due to competition for limited resources jeopardize local farming communities.
Community members express fears regarding the safety of their crops and livestock as pastoralists encroach upon their land. Thomas Ladu, a resident and elder, highlighted these concerns, stating, “Local residents are nervous about what might happen to them, their crops, and their animals. As we speak now, the armed herders are in my compound. They have destroyed all that I have, my cassava and other crops.”
The grassroots engagement aimed to facilitate dialogue and encourage conflict resolution amongst the affected populations. Roosevelt Gbamie Cooper, a UNMISS Civil Affairs Officer, emphasized the mission’s goal by discussing the political context of South Sudan and important components of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. More than 90 participants, including community leaders and youth representatives, actively participated in discussions about developmental solutions and peace-making strategies.
The plight of returnees affected by past conflicts was also at the forefront of discussions. Taban Rufas, a recent returnee, voiced concerns about herders threatening them and damaging their crops. He stated, “We have been living in grass-thatched houses since coming home but our homes and vegetable crops have been eaten by the cattle… Many of us trying to resettle here are fleeing back to refugee camps in Uganda.”
Edward Taban, the Kupera Payam Director, condemned the unlawful occupation of land by migrating pastoralists from Jonglei State, stressing the need for pastoralists to vacate civilian areas to ensure the security of farming activities. He expressed optimism that new county authorities would promote peaceful resolutions to the ongoing challenges.
This outreach effort serves as a critical step towards addressing the intricate dynamics between farmers and herders in South Sudan, aiming to foster reconciliation and sustainable agricultural practices while reducing violence and displacement in the region.
The ongoing tensions between pastoralists and farmers in Lainya County underscore the need for immediate peace efforts. The UNMISS-organized engagement provided a platform for local leaders to discuss these challenges openly, emphasizing the significance of collaboration in addressing resource conflicts. Ensuring the safe return of displaced persons and protecting agricultural lands remain paramount for community resilience and development. Cooperative efforts involving newly appointed authorities may be pivotal in fostering lasting peace and stability in the area.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
