The hotline initiative is part of a broader strategy that includes increased security patrols in and around Tombura to restore normalcy and safety for residents

By Emmanuel Mandella

To address the ongoing communal violence in Tombura County, the government of Western Equatoria State has announced plans to establish hotline telephone numbers, allowing residents to report suspicious activities directly to security forces. This initiative aims to enhance collaboration between citizens and authorities as a means to curb the violence.

Speaking exclusively to The City Review, the state’s Deputy Governor, Daniel Badagbu, emphasized on the critical role of community involvement in tackling the rising insecurity.

“The community must actively participate in sharing information with the state government and security forces. This partnership is vital in addressing the atrocities being perpetrated by some sections of clans involved in the conflict,” Badagbu stated.

The hotline initiative is part of a broader strategy that includes increased security patrols in and around Tombura to restore normalcy and safety for residents.

“We are putting measures in place to improve security and ensure people can go about their daily lives without fear,” Badagbu explained. He further announced a 72-hour ultimatum for the replacement of security forces operating along tribal lines, a move aimed at fostering neutrality and trust among affected communities.

Tombura County has been plagued by communal violence since 2021, primarily between the Balanda and Azande communities. The conflict has resulted in loss of lives and displacement of thousands into neighboring counties, including Nagero, Ezo, Nzara, and Yambio. Some have fled as far as Wau in Western Bahr el Ghazal State.

To address the crisis, the state government formed a senior committee on December 3, chaired by the deputy governor, to defuse tensions and find long-term solutions.

The introduction of hotline numbers is expected to have significant impacts on de-escalating the violence. According to Badagbu, residents can immediately alert authorities about suspicious activities, allowing for swift preventive actions.

Open communication channels can bridge the gap between citizens and the government, fostering trust in state-led efforts to ensure security, a streamlined reporting system can help identify and address threats more effectively, thereby reducing the chances of violence escalating further.

“The hotline system will empower citizens to contribute to their own safety. This collaboration can be the turning point in restoring peace to Tombura,” Badagbu added.

The people of Tombura and surrounding areas have expressed hope that these measures will bring much-needed relief. The ongoing efforts to increase patrols, coupled with the hotline initiative, are seen as practical steps toward calming the situation and enabling displaced persons to return home.

With the government’s renewed commitment to restoring peace, residents of Tombura are optimistic that the dark chapter of violence may soon come to an end, paving the way for healing and reconciliation.

“The hotline system will empower citizens to contribute to their own safety. This collaboration can be the turning point in restoring peace to Tombura,” Western Equatoria State Deputy Governor, Daniel Badagbu.