Herds of cattle leaving camp (Photo: Courtesy).

Senior Presidential Advisor Kuol Manyang Juuk has called on the people of Jonglei State to obey President Salva Kiir’s orders and take their cattle out of the Equatoria region.

He made the appeal in Bor town over the weekend in Bor town, following heightened conflict between host communities and cattle herders in Central Equatoria State.

“I think you have heard what President Kiir said, Jonglei people take your cattle from Equatoria and bring them back to Jonglei,” said Kuol.

He continued: “Peace means you don’t make trouble with someone else. There is grass and water, and everything is here. There is no one who leaves his state and goes to other people’s place, yes South Sudan is our country and all people have their places.”

Inter-communal and cattle-related conflicts have affected several areas including Lokiliri, Mangala and Dollo in Central Equatoria and parts of Magwi County in Eastern Equatoria state.

The clashes resulted in the displacement of thousands of farming communities as well as attacks on cattle-keepers in their camps.

In 2017, President Salva Kiir issued a decree ordering cattle keeper from Jonglei to move all their livestock out of the greater Equatoria region.

A committee was also set up to ensure that the animals were returned to their respective states.

But the herders have not respected the order.

Speaking during President Salva Kiir’s visit to Bor town on Saturday, the former governor reminded the citizens of the evacuation order.

He said Jonglei State has everything the people need including grazing land and water for their cattle.

“You tell these people to bring their cattle here. This is what I want to say, and I want to tell you to stand behind President Salva Kiir Mayardit and his government and do his duty.”