By Hou Akot Hou
A three-day peace conference between the Misseriya and Dinka Malual communities began on Wednesday in Wanyjok, the headquarters of Aweil East County.
The workshop, supported by United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), aims to address migration issues in anticipation of the Misseriya herders’ return.
This pre- and post-migration conference is intended to review previously signed agreements between the two historically rival communities, the Dinka Malual and the Misseriya.
Speaking at the conference’s opening, the Governor of Northern Bahr El Gazal state, Hon. Simon Ober Mawut, emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and fostering mutual respect between the two communities.
Governor Ober highlighted the necessity of discussing their differences with understanding to reach amicable solutions for any broken agreements.
“I appeal to you to ensure that you discuss the critical issues among yourselves in a professional manner,” Governor Ober stated. “You have resided along these borders for decades and know each other well. Our interest is to establish a long-lasting or sustainable peace between you.”
He further cautioned, “we do not want reports of killings before or after cattle grazing during the return migration, as such incidents send the wrong message and undermine peace efforts.”
Paramount Chief Makuach Kuol Makuach expressed his gratitude to the state government and UNMISS for organizing the workshop, pledging their commitment to upholding the importance of peaceful cohabitation with their neighbors.
“We have signed numerous agreements with our brothers from Sudan who are cattle herders like us, such as the Misseriya and Rezigat. Any skirmishes that occur are often due to problematic individuals on both sides,” he noted.
It remains to be seen whether this conference will facilitate a comprehensive review of all signed accords. Some residents allege that government officials have accepted blood compensation payments, which they view as a means for personal enrichment at the expense of the Misseriya whenever a death or similar issue arises.”