There may be friction with land-owning farmers when huge herds of cattle and their semi-nomadic owners move in search of new pastures. The United Nations Mission in South Sudan recently co-organized a two-day conference in Maban County, which borders Sudan, to preserve cordial ties during the migration season.
“We all, herders and farmers alike, need our respective resources to sustain our families. If you don’t destroy our crops, we won’t harm your cattle and we will all be better off,” said Mansour Mustafa, a Paramount Chief in the county, stressing that everyone stands to gain from peace and social cohesion.
Seasonal migration of pastoralists from Sudan, primarily the Fallatas from the Blue Nile State, to South Sudan has a long history. The event usually occurs between October and June, when cattle keepers cross the border back north to avoid the severe rains in Upper Nile State.
“During these two days we have discussed the situation and agreed on solutions to the obstacles we sometimes encounter when our animals come her for grazing. Together, we have managed to form a cross-border peace committee tasked with addressing any tensions that may still arise,” said Issa Ali Barakah, chief of the Sudanese cattle herders.
50 people attended the seminar, which was planned in conjunction with Maban County officials and the state ministry of animal resources and fisheries. A woman’s leader was part of the Sudanese delegation for the first time; Charles Boum, a Civil Affairs Officer with the UN peacekeeping force, applauded this move.
“This is a very good gesture. Women’s participation when peace and security matters are discussed is critical,” he said, strongly encouraging both parties to further increase their female representation and urging participants to circulate the outcome of the forum as widely as possible.
“Let this accord serve as a norm that will guide every step you take,” Mr. Boum added.
A joint court with the responsibility of addressing issues over the movement of cattle in the region was also agreed upon by all present, in addition to migration routes being clearly designated and respected.