Authorities inspect cattle belonging to the Mundari community after they were recently recovered. Courtesy photo.

The Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, has ordered the return of 30 recovered cattle belonging to the Mundari community of Central Equatoria State as part of efforts to promote peace and reconciliation.

Governor Badagbu issued the directive during a meeting with the commissioners of Mundri East and Mundri West counties in Yambio.

He instructed the commissioners to ensure the cattle are handed back to their rightful owners.

The governor also called on members of the Western Equatoria community who may still be in possession of stolen cattle to return them voluntarily, saying cooperation is essential to restoring trust and peaceful coexistence between communities.

Governor Badagbu further urged county commissioners to work closely with local communities, listen to their concerns, and continue supporting efforts to recover any remaining stolen cattle.

The directive follows ongoing efforts by the governments of Central and Western Equatoria states to recover cattle stolen during recent intercommunal violence and return them to their rightful owners under the Rokon Peace Consensus.

Earlier this year, authorities from both states jointly handed over recovered cattle as part of efforts to rebuild trust and prevent further conflict.