Community leaders are appealing for peace between cattle herders and farmers in Lainya County, as armed pastoralists threaten agricultural activities. Despite efforts to mediate through discussions facilitated by UNMISS, local residents express growing concerns over safety and resource management. Key leaders stress the need for urgent solutions to conflict and protection of farming activities.
Community leaders are urging peace between cattle herders and farmers during a grassroots meeting organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in Lainya County. This region is known for its fertile land, which supports considerable agriculture, with nearly half of households involved in farming and livestock raising. However, armed pastoralists migrating for resources are severely disrupting agricultural activities, leading to increased conflict.
The tension over limited resources has resulted in widespread concerns among local residents. Thomas Ladu, an elder from Kupera Payam, stated, “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. They also harvested crops from our farms without permission.” This highlights the urgent need for intervention to manage the situation.
Efforts to mediate these conflicts were a focal point of discussions at the UNMISS-hosted engagement. Roosevelt Gbamie Cooper, a Civil Affairs Officer with UNMISS, emphasized the importance of sharing information on South Sudan’s political dynamics, including aspects of the Revitalized Peace Agreement and transitional justice. More than 90 participants contributed to open dialogue aimed at addressing disputes and enhancing development within communities.
The plight of those displaced by previous conflicts exacerbates the situation. Taban Rufas, a recent returnee, remarked, “We have been living in grass-thatched houses since coming home, but our homes and vegetable crops have been eaten by the cattle. Our relationship with the pastoralists is bad. They are threatening us with their guns, and we are living in fear.” This underscores the challenges faced by individuals attempting to return to their homes despite an unsafe environment.
Edward Taban, Kupera Payam Director, pointed out that land is unlawfully occupied by migrating pastoralists from Jonglei State and Terekeka County, complicating efforts for community stability. He concluded by stating, “It’s vital that the pastoralists move away from civilian villages so that farming activities are not affected, and communities can feel safe and secure. We hope that the arrival of newly appointed County authorities will help peacefully resolve the challenges between farmers and pastoralists.”
The call for peace between cattle herders and farmers in Lainya County emphasizes the urgent need for constructive dialogue and resolution of conflicts impacting agricultural productivity. The discussions prove critical in ensuring the safety of the local population and fostering rights to land and resources. Engagement from UNMISS highlights the importance of collaboration in addressing these conflicts and promoting stability in the region.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
