UNMISS Force Protection, Civil Affairs and a representative of the Communications and Public Information Section on 9 September conducted a workshop in Jubek State’s Mangalla Country. The objective was to assess the humanitarian and security situation in an conflict-ridden area inhabited by both Bari and Mundari communities.

In his opening remarks to the approximately twenty chiefs, elders and women present, the Deputy Commissioner of Mangalla County, Tongun Wani Jada, noted that Mangalla County is an area where land is contested by both the Mundari tribesmen of Jemeiza County and the Bari population of Mangalla. He lamented that this conflict has resulted in mass looting of shops and cattle and have also had a negative impact on the most vulnerable people, amongst them children, women and the elderly.

“The conflict between these communities is politically motivated and the result of poor delivery of services, like health and education, to develop the area”, the Deputy Commissioner said.

On behalf of the visiting delegation, Civil Affairs Officer Anne Schuit pledged the Mission’s full support to the community by extending their plea for assistance to humanitarian partners.

 “We are here today to understand what happened here in May, what issues your communities are facing, how they are being handled and what kind of tensions and conflicts they are causing. By understanding we can assist you in addressing the issues”, a visibly concerned Anne Schuit told the highly enthused participants.

Tensions began running high between Baris and Mundaris when Mangalla County became part of Jubek State as a result of the creation of 28 states. The Mundari youth were allegedly denied entry to the town, a move that resulted in violent confrontations and vicious assaults.

Sultan Peter Swaka, the Head Chief of Managalla, believes that a border demarcation that clearly identifies which land that belongs to which community is the first step in resolving the ongoing conflict.

Geetha Pious from the UNMISS Civil Affairs Officer Division pledged to work hard to make peace return to Mangalla County.

 “We will try to meet with the other communities in the area, particularly the Mundaris, and we will try to arrange a conference of peace of reconciliation for the two communities”, said Geetha Pious, adding that UNMISS will also follow up with the committee set up by the Transitional Government of National Unity to deal with the border demarcation issue.

During the workshop a representative from the Communications and Public Information Section also briefed the participants on the UNMISS mandate as detailed in the UN Security Council Resolution (2304) adopted on 12 August.

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