Leaders from Jonglei State and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) say communities have agreed to work together to end violence and strengthen security following the second day of the Inter-Community Peace Conference in Gumuruk County.

The meeting, chaired by GPAA Chief Administrator Gola Boyoi Gola and Jonglei State Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok, brought together commissioners, women, and youth representatives from neighboring communities. Participants pledged cooperation across administrative lines to address cattle raiding, child abductions, and recurring clashes.

Authorities reported progress in recovering cattle stolen from Duk and Baidiit after earlier raids linked to criminals from Manyabol and Nanaam. Gola Boyoi Gola said commissioners and traditional leaders had been directed to pursue those responsible and prevent further incidents.

Dr. Riek Gai Kok welcomed the dialogue and thanked partners, including the Peace Canal and the Peacebuilding Opportunities Fund, for supporting the initiative. He said communities from Jonglei and GPAA had chosen to act as one despite being under separate administrations, with a shared commitment to reconciliation.

He added that the main challenge remains strengthening government action against criminal groups and expanding access to basic services. He pointed to the region’s limited infrastructure, lack of telecommunications, and vast, densely populated areas as factors that complicate security efforts.

Both leaders called for continued cooperation between communities and sustained government involvement to maintain stability and support development.

The conference forms part of ongooing efforts to resolve inter-communal tensions and build lasting peace in the region.