Leaders and elders from the Jiye and Toposa communities have pledged to resolve disputes through dialogue and traditional conflict-resolution mechanisms following a peace meeting aimed at reducing tensions and promoting peaceful coexistence in Kapoeta North County.
The reconciliation meeting, held in Wokobu kraals on Wednesday, brought together representatives from both communities under the leadership of Kapoeta North County Commissioner David Nayee Lomor.
The gathering focused on addressing the root causes of recurring conflicts and finding sustainable solutions to strengthen relations between the neighboring communities.
For years, the Jiye and Toposa communities have experienced periodic clashes linked to cattle theft, competition over grazing land and water resources, and retaliatory attacks.
Such incidents have often disrupted livelihoods, displaced families, and undermined efforts to maintain peace and stability in the area.
During the discussions, community leaders acknowledged the need to end the cycle of violence and agreed to revive traditional systems of mediation that have historically helped settle disputes peacefully.
Participants emphasized that disagreements should be addressed through dialogue rather than revenge attacks that often escalate tensions and lead to further suffering.
One of the key resolutions reached during the meeting was a commitment by both communities to report cases of cattle theft and other disputes to local chiefs and community elders for investigation and mediation.
Leaders said this approach would allow grievances to be addressed through established community structures and prevent conflicts from spiraling into violence.
The meeting also agreed to establish a joint peace committee made up of respected elders from both the Jiye and Toposa communities.
The committee will serve as a platform for continuous engagement, helping to resolve disputes, monitor emerging tensions, and encourage cooperation between the two groups.
Addressing the gathering, Commissioner Lomor urged community members to embrace unity and work together in pursuit of lasting peace.
He called on residents to reject retaliation and instead prioritize dialogue, mutual respect, and understanding.
The commissioner further encouraged both communities to peacefully share grazing areas and water sources, noting that cooperation over natural resources is essential for maintaining harmony among pastoralist communities.
He stressed that sustainable peace can only be achieved when communities commit themselves to coexistence and collective responsibility for protecting lives and livelihoods.
Community elders welcomed the outcomes of the dialogue, describing the agreements as a significant step toward rebuilding trust and preventing future conflicts.
They expressed optimism that the commitments made during the meeting would contribute to stronger relations and greater stability across Kapoeta North and neighboring areas.
The peace initiative forms part of broader efforts by local authorities and traditional leaders to strengthen social cohesion and promote reconciliation among communities in Eastern Equatoria State.
