By James Juma Santino
Lainya County has taken a crucial step towards fostering harmony between agrarians and pastoralists through a three-day dialogue.
Lainya County Commissioner, Robert Lasu John, while opening the forum, emphasized the county’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.
The commissioner underscored the importance of structured dialogue as a tool to bridge differences and promote mutual understanding.
“Lainya County is built on the principles of coexistence. We must embrace dialogue as a means to address disputes and create lasting peace,” Lasu said.
He further assured participants that the local administration would continue supporting initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration among agrarians and pastoralists.
Meanwhile, Lainya County Director of the Agricultural Department, Cons Bidal Eliseo, provided insights into challenges of the agricultural sector, particularly the impact of cattle migration on food production.
He called for an urgent need for coordinated land management policies that balance the interests of both farming and pastoral communities.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of Lainya County’s food security. Sustainable land-use planning and responsible pastoral practices are essential for ensuring stability and productivity,” he remarked.
Eliseo advocated for the introduction of agricultural zones and grazing reserves to mitigate recurring tensions.
The dialogue also featured contributions from Paramount Chief Jackson Lumori, who reinforced the role of traditional leadership in guiding peaceful resolutions.
Deputy Chairperson of the Lainya County Peace Committee, Zachariah Loku Yakobo, who called for continued mediation efforts.
Faith-based organizations played a pivotal role in the discussions, with the Inter-Church Committee, Loice Mono Nathaniel, emphasizing the moral responsibility of religious groups in fostering reconciliation.
However, Chairperson of the Lainya County Women’s Association, Harriet Roba, advocated for Women’s representation in peacebuilding.
She highlighted the importance of integrating women’s perspectives in conflict resolution strategies.
Pastoralist representatives, including John Makue Matiop of Dinka Bor community and Zakayo Mogga Mulai of the Mundari cattle keepers, stressed the need for collaborative approaches to land-use management that do not undermine pastoral livelihoods.
Consensus among participants all pointed at dialogue as a powerful mechanism for resolving disputes and fostering unity in Lainya County.
This initiative marks a vital milestone in community-led efforts toward long-term peace and development, reinforcing the county’s dedication to sustainable solutions that benefit all residents.
The three-day dialogue organized by Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative (WPDI), attracted 40 pastoralists, 40 farmers, and 20 representatives from local governance, peace committees, and the inter-church committee.