An armed herder tends to cattle in unidentified place in South Sudan | Credit | Courtesy
Authorities in Greater Kapoeta counties of Eastern Equatoria State have called
on pastoralist communities to share grazing land and water resources peacefully
as the dry season approaches, following recent disputes over livestock
movement.
Pastoralists from Kapoeta South County moved their cattle
into Budi County searching for pasture and water, leading to clashes with local
communities. On Saturday, three cows were wounded near Mahiria town along the
Nguro border.
Budi County Commissioner Julious Amin Ben urged both
communities to engage in dialogue and follow agreed protocols for crossing into
other territories.
“Peace is life. We can have many cows on both sides, Didinga
and Toposa. The only thing is to coexist peacefully,” Ben said.
He explained that conflicts often arise when herders cross
into another community’s territory without informing local leaders.
“Communities get angry when people cross their territory
without informing them. If they want to come, they should report to me. I will
call the chiefs. They come to the other side, we sit down, and then they can
graze together,” he stated.
Authorities are urging pastoralists to notify local leaders
before entering other communities, share grazing and water resources
responsibly, and resolve disputes through dialogue.
Commissioner Ben emphasized that peaceful coexistence is essential during the dry season to protect both people and livestock.