The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) recently organized a grassroots engagement in Lainya County to address the escalating tensions between farmers and armed pastoralists. The fertile land in the county has a long history of successfully producing maize, cassava, and other essential food items, with almost half of all households engaged in farming and livestock raising.
The presence of armed pastoralists migrating their cattle to the area in search of grazing land and fresh water has significantly impacted the ability of communities to carry out their agricultural activities. Conflict between the two groups is rampant, with tensions over access to scarce resources running high.
Local resident and elder, Thomas Ladu, expressed concern over the destruction of crops and livestock by the armed herders. Efforts to resolve the issue have been futile, as the government has failed to direct the pastoralists to return to their areas, leaving farmers stranded with nowhere to go.
The grassroots engagement organized by UNMISS aimed to promote reconciliation, resolve disputes, and build peace in the community. More than 90 participants, including community leaders, youth, women’s representatives, elders, and organized forces, engaged in constructive discussions on ways to address the conflict and promote development.
A key concern raised was the impact on those displaced by previous conflicts who are trying to return to their homes. Recent returnee, Taban Rufas, highlighted the challenges faced by those trying to resettle, including threats from the pastoralists and fear among the community.
Kupera Payam Director, Edward Taban, emphasized the need for the pastoralists to move away from civilian villages to ensure that farming activities are not affected and communities can feel safe. The arrival of newly appointed County authorities is hoped to help peacefully resolve the challenges between farmers and pastoralists.
In conclusion, the grassroots engagement by UNMISS provided a platform for open dialogue and constructive debate to address the conflict between farmers and armed pastoralists in Lainya County. The community’s concerns over access to resources, security, and the impact on displaced populations were raised, with a focus on finding sustainable solutions to promote peace and development in the region.
