The situation unfolding in Magwi County is a direct result of chronic failure in South Sudan’s preparedness for displacement, return, and land use conflicts.
After the eviction of cattle herders by the Ugandan government, many are reported to be planning to temporarily settle in Magwi County of Eastern Equatoria state.
While the herders expressed willingness to move to their state of origin, there is a call for the government to facilitate the movement of their cattle; hence, there is a need for government intervention.
If violence erupts between the host community, predominantly comprised of farmers, and the cattle herders, blame will be exacted on the government for failing to act on time.
Must we wait for the first shot to be fired or the first hut to be burned before action is taken? Or rather, act now by providing logistics for safe evacuation of the herders to their land of origin.
South Sudanese are disturbed by the fact that a signed memorandum of understanding between four states, namely Eastern Equatoria, Jonglei, Pibor, and Central Equatoria, has been ignored. What is the use of agreements if they can be violated without consequence?
Both the residents of Magwi and the cattle keepers deserve protection, not silence. The returnee herders deserve a structured path back home, not chaotic settlement.
National leaders must stop hiding behind paperwork and take action to avoid yet another humanitarian crisis.