By Matik Kueth
The inter-community peace conference between Mayom County of Unity State and Abiemnom County of Ruweng Administrative Area (RAA) concluded in Juba on Tuesday with a strong call for unity, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence between the two neighboring communities.
The three-day conference, which began on Monday, brought together leaders and members of the National Legislative Assembly (NTLA), elders and chiefs from both counties to address long-standing grievances, promote grassroots reconciliation, and prevent future conflicts between the sisterly communities.
Speaking at the closing session, Samuel Mabuok, Mayom County’s Head Chief, stressed the importance of strengthening peaceful relations, describing the people of Mayom and Abiemnom as “brothers who must live together in harmony.”
“We must maintain peace and engage the youth directly. They are the future, but today they are easily misled. We must show them a different way so that they follow our footsteps as their fathers, elders, mothers and brothers,” Mabuok said.
He urged community leaders to take a more active role in engaging with young people to discourage violence and promote a culture of dialogue.
“I call upon all of us to make sure that we advise the armed youth so that they can refrain from violence and cattle raids,” he stressed.
Kur Kuot, Head Chief of Abiemnom County, hailed the peace talks as a breakthrough in rebuilding trust and a step toward long-term cooperation between the two communities.
“This peace dialogue is a testament to our desire to end hostilities. We must unite as one people and reject voices that promote division and conflict,” he stated.
The conference was concluded with key resolutions, which include, creation of a joint security committee to investigate the April incident, and a commitment to hold regular grassroots peace forums to address conflicts in the areas.