File photo: Some of the firearms collected of civilians in Rumbek, Lakes State. | Courtesy

A three-day peace conference for Greater Tonj communities in Warrap State recommended a comprehensive and peaceful disarmament of civilians in the area and in neighboring states.

The peace dialogue seeks to reconcile communities in the region that has seen deadly sectional conflicts in the past few years.

The area has suffered disputes over grazing land, cattle raiding, and revenge killings – a situation brought about by the presence of guns in the hands of civilians.

Over 400 participants from Tonj North, Tonj East, and Tonj South attended the three-day conference held under the theme “Laying foundation for peaceful, stable, and resilient communities”.

William Wol Mayom, the state Minister of Information said the communities resolved that firearms must be voluntarily hand over to the government to avoid bloodshed.

Speaking to Eye Radio on Monday, Wol also said the dialogue also resolved that there should be comprehensive disarmament in all the neighboring states.

“It calls for a comprehensive disarmament, not just disarmament across Warrap but also among its neighbors such as Lakes and Unity,” he said.

The communities also resolved that the government must develop social amenities such as infrastructural facilities and recreational centers in Tonj to improve lives and engage youth in sports.

The conference was facilitated by a consortium of six humanitarian partners, including, UNMISS, WFP, UNDP, and ADRA among others.