Greater Equatoria region is experiencing severe violence due to unresolved issues surrounding cattle keepers in the area.
The actions of armed cattle keepers are not representative of a credible nation. The recent incident in Magwi has led to displacement of people and loss of lives, instilling fear in Eastern Equatoria State.
Last year, armed groups destroyed farmland, looted properties, and burned over 300 houses in Magwi County, resulting in the rampant killing of innocents. Many were shot or burned, forcing residents into refugee camps.
People in the area are agriculturalists capable of providing sufficient food for South Sudan, yet the country continues to rely on expired goods, often unfit for human consumption.
In Lainya County, last year, four people who went to water their gardens were attacked. Three innocent youths were also killed, with their bodies left in hospitals. Those meant to harvest and prepare their land for cultivation faced similar fates, a situation reflected in Kajo-Keji County. These incidents have become pressing issues.
Governors and commissioners seem unable to address the challenges facing the Greater Equatoria region. Does this imply a lack of strong security measures in the country? Why is the national government not intervening? Is the government complicit in arming cattle keepers to push farmers off their land?
Politicians involved in arming cattle keepers are obstructing progress. The violence against innocent people over resources indicates an absence of peace. When a government neglects its citizens, it speaks volumes. Should farmers now arm themselves to protect their gardens? Some politicians, fearing the upcoming 2026 elections, may deliberately incite chaos in civilian lives to drive people back to refugee camps.
This suffering is unacceptable. We are on the verge of peace; let us achieve it without further interruption as we await the elections.
I urge the leadership of the country to strengthen security in Greater Equatoria and South Sudan at large to safeguard the lives of its people.
God Bless South Sudan
Be the spectator.