JUBA – Authorities in Wonduruba Administrative Payam have announced the recovery of 49 goats and the peaceful evacuation of cattle keepers from Terekeka, following what officials described as sustained complaints over theft and destruction of farmland.
In a statement issued on March 28, the Office of the Coordinator said the goats had been stolen from residents by a group of “undisciplined cattle keepers” but were successfully returned after a series of negotiations with leaders of Mundari cattle camps originating from Terekeka.
The office said the breakthrough was achieved through dialogue and cooperation between community leaders and cattle camp authorities, allowing for the identification of those responsible and the restitution of stolen livestock to their rightful owners.
Wonduruba Coordinator Towongo Stephen welcomed the development, commending the cattle keepers for responding to calls for accountability and taking steps to address indiscipline within their ranks.
He confirmed that the cattle keepers had agreed to vacate Wonduruba Administrative Area peacefully, a decision aimed at allowing local farmers to resume agricultural activities without interference from grazing animals.
The presence of cattle from Terekeka in farming areas of Central Equatoria has long been a source of tension, often leading to crop destruction, livestock theft, and periodic violence between pastoralists and farming communities.
Stephen said the latest agreement marks a significant step toward protecting livelihoods and restoring calm, urging both sides to respect territorial boundaries and coexist peacefully.
“We must continue to regard one another as brothers and sisters, protect each other’s property, and respect the different economic activities practised by our communities,” he said.
The Executive Chief of Wonduruba, Noel Lujang, also praised the outcome, noting that both communities had addressed grievances, including compensation for stolen goats and damage to farms.
He emphasised that the Mundari community of Terekeka and the people of Wonduruba have historically coexisted peacefully, even before South Sudan’s independence, and called for a return to those shared values.
“These communities have lived together for generations. What we are seeing now is a restoration of that long-standing relationship,” he said.
Local authorities said the engagements concluded with the full and peaceful withdrawal of the cattle keepers, underscoring dialogue as an effective tool for resolving intercommunal disputes.
The Office of the Coordinator reiterated its commitment to promoting peace, justice, and unity, while encouraging continued cooperation between pastoralists and farmers to prevent future conflicts.
