CENTRAL/WESTERN EQUATORIA– Frequent cattle raids and retaliatory attacks have often threatened South Sudan’s fragile peace.
But in some states, solutions are being found through constructive dialogue and community-led agreements.
An example of such grassroots-focused peacebuilding is Mundri in Western Equatoria, where as a gesture of reconciliation and commitment, the Central Equatoria State Government just handed over 11 stolen cattle.
Based on a cooperative framework between state authorities of Central and West Equatoria, supported by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the Rokon Consensus—as the initiative is being called—is part of joint efforts to identify and return all stolen cattle to the communities they belong to.
Focus is not just on the return of cattle but also on the return of displaced persons that fled their homes in search of places where they could safely keep and take care of their livestock, as Emmanuel Loku, County Commissioner, Terekeka, Central Equatoria, highlighted during the handover event:
‘’We must collectively commit to bringing accountability and justice for those that have lost their lives, livestock, and property, and are currently displaced due to fighting that started with cattle rustling. We will do everything we can to make sure our brothers and sisters receive what their entitled to.’’
Justine Marona, Deputy Governor, Western Equatoria, shared similar sentiments.
“The blood of our innocent people must be honoured as part of the Rokon Peace Consensus which allows us to leave our violent past and embark towards a peaceful future together.”
This return of cattle is a testimony to the implementation of local-level negotiations supported by UNMISS earlier this year where communities from both states came together to establish consensuses on migration routes and grazing schedules.
“True peace emerges when communities themselves are empowered to lead dialogue, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust where it has been broken. This means investing in local leadership, supporting grassroots initiatives, and creating space for inclusive participation Once peace is established at the community-level, development and economic growth will naturally follow,” said Christopher Murenga, Head of the UNMISS integrated Field Office for Central and Eastern Equatoria.
According to state authorities the proposed Consensus is designed to chart a clear and practical path forward towards lasting peace. This includes convening a broad-based peace conference rooted in community participation, agreeing on an appropriate venue and inclusive representation, establishing a technical committee to guide the process, and developing binding resolutions that will be jointly endorsed by both state governments.
The aim: to ensure that the outcomes from the fledgling Rokon Consensus reflect the voices and priorities of the people on the ground.
By Alahayi Nemaya
