by RAJI BASHIR
KHARTOUM – THE signing of a joint communique by rival ethnic groups is a major step in ending rivalries in war-torn Sudan.
The leaders of the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya three migration corridors and the Joint Community Peace Committee have signed a joint communique reiterating their commitment to peaceful coexistence and improving inter-communal relations.
This follows a largely peaceful migration season without major security incidents, signifying growing trust and collaboration between the communities.
Organized by the United Nations Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) in collaboration with Concordis International, International Office for Migration, United Nations Development Programme and World Food Programme, the conference provided a platform for more than 160 community leaders to tackle emerging issues during the just-concluded migration season.
The season saw thousands of Misseriya herders, and their cattle migrate peacefully.
Notably, women leaders of the three corridors comprised 41 percent of participants—a reflection of growing gender inclusion in local peace efforts.
“The signing of the communique is not only a demonstration of your leadership but also your desire to coexist peacefully through dialogue and cooperation,” NISFA Mission Chief of Staff, Alexander Rose, told delegates.
UNISFA, together with its partners, will support the follow-up to the resolutions. And with your support, we will remain vigilant in light of recent security incidents which could impact the security in the area.”
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the migration corridors and the rights of the herders and host communities.
The Abyei seasonal migration has two key migration cycles, the southward migration which occurs at the beginning of the dry season and the northward post-migration at the beginning of the rainy season, during which the mainly Misseriya herders return to their origins, with their livestock.
The season exerts significant pressure on the already strained resources including essential services, water, security and even land ownership.
– CAJ News
