13 March 2012 - Ongoing challenges could hinder an inter-state peace conference on border areas to be held in Madol, Unity State, although preparations were on course, a top local official said today.

An airstrip has been prepared and areas cleared for construction of tukuls (mud and straw huts) and rakobas (open-air tukuls) for the conference, Unity Minister of Information and Communications Gideon Gatpan Thoar said in an interview.

Aimed at establishing peace in the border areas of Warrap, Lakes and Unity states, the conference is vital for addressing disarmament, peace, grazing and resident grievances, said the minister, who also serves as the conference's chairman.

But challenges had arisen to impede the conference, including its date, he said. "We have scheduled the meeting for March 26, but the national peace committee wants it held on March 15."

Other challenges included roads and the conference venue, he said. "We have yet to complete feeder roads linking the settlements. We have cleared the area for the main event, but construction of tents is still pending."

Mr. Thoar dismissed objections about the conference from Warrap and Lakes state officials, who say that its location in the payam of Madol is a disputed area and do not recognize Unity state's claims to it.

"Madol is a payam in Mayendit (County in Unity State)," he said. "The venue for talks should not be combined with administrative issues or concerns. It is no benefit to anyone to oppose peace talks because of mere venue."

Jock Gatluok, Unity State Civil Society Organizations Steering Committee head, welcomed the conference but expressed concern over claims and counter-claims over Madol.

"The meeting is important for all parties and, as such, Madol ownership must be sorted out quickly at a central level," he said. "Our people need peace and must be given peace now that South Sudan is independent."

UNMISS Civil Affairs Team Leader Kwame Dwamena-Aboagye commended Unity State Governor Lt. Gen. Taban Deng Gai for his commitment to hold a successful conference, despite lingering issues.

"The governor said this meeting will not be hindered over claims of Madol, neither will it take place hastily," Mr. Dwamena-Aboagye said. He added that Governor Gai had told UNMISS the conference would be shifted from 26 March to the end of the month.

"We are prepared to work and support the holding of the conference," the civil affairs officer added.

The conference will bring together representatives of civil society, chiefs, peace supporting organizations, disarmament forces, traders, prominent village leaders and cattle camp groups.