Warrap State Governor Eng. Manhiem Bol Malek (from middle/in darks suits) during the Luacjang Community peace conference in Tonj East County. 28th December 2022. (Photo: Office of the Governor).

The government of Warrap State is holding peace conferences in the Greater Tonj region in a bid to reconcile communities previously involved in cattle and land-related hostilities.

On Tuesday, the state information minister said the community of Yar in Tonj South County resolved to end bloodshed and live peacefully with their neighbors, according to a government official in the state.

This was during the launch of a three-day Peace Conference initiated by local chiefs, intellectuals, and government officials at Mabior Yar town on Tuesday.

Minister William Wol Mayom said the initiative is a call for reconciliation and forgiveness among the two clans and with their neighbors.

Speaking to Eye Radio, Mayom said Governor Manhiem Bol Malek has encouraged the communities to continue preaching peace in the state.

“Today on 27th December 2022, H.E Brig. Gen. Manhiem Bol Malek, the governor of Warrap State has officiated the Peace conference of Mabior Yar Community,” said Minister Mayom.

“Mabior Yar have planned this year to have a peace conference, and the remark of honorable governor is that he has informed and advised the community to continue preaching for peaceful coexistence among the communities.”

Mayom further said the chiefs commended the peace efforts by the state government and hope that the state will embrace peace and stability next year.

“And in the response of the opening remarks, the paramount chief appreciated the governor and promised that this year 2023, the New Year would mark a year of peace. Because Yar community and Thony Community had been on loggerhead over a land dispute.”

A similar peace conference for Luacjang community has also started in Tonj East County to sensitize the young people on conflict resolution and peace.

Over the last few years, a land dispute involving the two communities of Yar and Thony has resulted in a conflict that has claimed lives.

Deadly cattle-related conflicts have also been reported in the Tonj region.