After years of deadly conflict fueled by disputes over water and grazing land, the Waat and Panyar communities in Cueibet have reached a breakthrough peace agreement that many hopes will finally end a cycle of cattle raids and revenge killings.
The accord, signed after two days of dialogue, outlines a nine-point pact that includes establishing a joint special court to handle disputes, constructing a feeder road to improve connectivity, and seeking support for developing new water sources to reduce competition over resources.
“This conflict has deep roots that stretch back generations. But today we see a new path forward that could restore peace between our people,” said Matur Malek, a community member who took part in the talks.
Past reconciliation attempts, supported by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and other partners, had repeatedly collapsed.
Local residents say poor infrastructure and insecurity made it difficult to sustain progress. This time, however, the inclusion of state parliamentarians and local authorities proved decisive.
“The involvement of state parliament members and other local authorities who truly understand the conflict’s underlying causes appears to have been helpful,” noted Fatmata Mamie Henrietta Deen-Kanu, a Civil Affairs Officer with UNMISS.
UNMISS has pledged to continue backing the peace process, stressing that long-term stability will depend on sustained dialogue and investment in community development.
For many in Cueibet, the agreement offers a rare sense of optimism. If implemented, the pact could mark a turning point in transforming bitter divisions into cooperation and shared progress.
