Community leaders in Lainya County are calling for peace between cattle herders and farmers due to escalating conflicts over land and resources. The UNMISS hosted an engagement with over 90 participants to discuss these tensions and promote reconciliation. Local residents, including recent returnees, express fears regarding violence and threats from armed herders. Authorities emphasize the need for pastoralists to vacate civilian areas to ensure the safety of farming activities.
Community leaders in Lainya County emphasize the urgent need for peace between cattle herders and farmers during a grassroots engagement organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). This region boasts fertile land that has historically yielded substantial crops such as maize and cassava, with nearly half of households involved in agricultural activities. However, the influx of armed pastoralists seeking grazing land and water has considerably disrupted farming efforts, heightening tensions and increasing the potential for conflict.
The situation has escalated, causing concern among local residents. Thomas Ladu, a Kupera Payam elder, noted, “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.” Efforts to resolve the conflict have been met with challenges, as farmers feel stranded without support from the government to address grievances with the herders.
During the UNMISS engagement, attendees deliberated on the stand-off, with a commitment to promoting reconciliation and cooperation. UNMISS Civil Affairs Officer Roosevelt Gbamie Cooper highlighted the significance of discussing the political landscape of South Sudan, including crucial aspects of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Over 90 participants, including community leaders and representatives from various sectors, engaged in constructive dialogues aimed at fostering development and resolving disputes.
The plight of those displaced by prior conflicts was underscored by Taban Rufas, a recent returnee. He shared, “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.” This fear of violence has led some individuals to vacate their homes and return to refugee camps in Uganda.
Kupera Payam Director Edward Taban pointed out that land is unlawfully occupied by migrating pastoralists from Jonglei State and Terekeka County. He advocated for the removal of pastoralists from civilian areas to ensure the safety of farming communities and to enable agricultural activities to resume. Taban expressed optimism that newly appointed county authorities could facilitate a peaceful resolution to the ongoing challenges.
In conclusion, the situation between cattle herders and farmers in Lainya County requires immediate attention to foster peace and prevent conflict. Local leaders stress the importance of governmental intervention to resolve disputes over land use and safeguard agricultural practices. Enhanced dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among local communities and leaders are essential to create a secure environment for farming and promote overall development in the region.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
