18 March 2014 - Seeking to reconcile two communities deeply divided by disputes, UNMISS has supported a peace dialogue between the Apuk Juwir and Thony communities in Tonj South County, Warrap State.

Aimed at addressing the communities’ support for rival groups, the event from 15 to 16 March drew government officials, community chiefs, cattle keepers, religious leaders and UNMISS representatives.

Luka Lual Madhang, representing the governor, told the gathering, “Taking sides in conflicts in other counties will help to escalate them.” He called on the Wan Alel community , which is the home of traditional laws for Bahr El-Ghazal, to take the lead in building peace.

Mr. Madhang advised against using raided cows for dowry, suggesting that men to work harder to pay the bride price.

UNMISS State Coordinator Abraham Onifade stressed the importance of peace for development. “Communities have to work collectively in achieving peace for sake of future generations.”

According to Mr. Onifade, the presence at the dialogue of executives and legislative arms of government as well as county commissioners, executive chiefs and larger communities strongly suggested a desire for peace.

Tonj South County Commissioner Wilam Wol Mayom warned against “the spreading of false rumours as they will be misinterpreted wrongly and … lead to conflict”, directing police and national security to arrest enemies of peace.

The County Commissioner of Tonj East, Madhol Hol Thoc, emphasized that “raided cows be brought back for peace to prevail” and that “delivery of justice should be improved since the delay has been a very serious challenge”.

A 19-point resolution at the conference end recommended government support for community leaders to assist with early warning; special attention for protection of women and children; and that guns be prohibited for under-aged persons.

It also advised that arms be replaced with traditional bows and arrows in cattle camps; raided cattle be returned to owners; and law enforcement and related agencies be strengthened.

The gathering unanimously agreed to hold a separate dialogue in Ananatak, Tonj East, to reconcile communities torn apart by retaliatory murder, raids and counter raids and unending animosity.

A traditional rite saw the sacrifice of two bulls from Apuk Juwiir and Thony communities to atone the sins of both communities. Chiefs, youths, women and men of all ages celebrated the unity of both communities in an event attended by about 2,500 people.