The Impact Response Committee has recommended for immediate repatriation of all the Mundari cattle within Juba country to Terekeka to prevent further intercommunal violence in Central Equatoria State.

The committee, comprising sons and daughters of Mundari serving in organised forces, presented the recommendation to Governor Emmanuel Adil after their recent visit to various cattle camps in Terekeka to curb sectional armed youth’s clashes.

Besides returning cattle to their respective origins, the committee also have recommended for immediate provision of security along all the roads in the state to allow free movement of people and goods.

It further recommended a quick resettlement and provision of humanitarian support to internally displaced persons affected by the recurring conflict.

Intra armed violence among Mundari cattle keepers has claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands in Juba and Terekeka counties over the past months.

Wave of violence

Thousands displaced, mostly women, children and elderly persons have continued to face dire humanitarian situation including lack of adequate clean drinking water, food, shelters and healthcare services.

Calling on Mundari armed youths to desist shun intercommunal violence, Governor Antony commended the committee and promised government’s effort to bringing lasting peace so as to end the suffering of vulnerable citizens in South Sudan.

It is not certain the exact cause of the recurring fight, but limited grassing areas and sources of drinking water for both animals and people, execrated by rampant insecurity in some parts of the country have been cited the major triggers.

However, several previous attempts by the government to repatriate cattle to place of their origins to avoid farmers-herders clashes and herders among themselves have not been successful since 2016 despite President Kiir’s order.