The challenges facing the people of Jonglei State and Greater Pibor Administrative Areas are immense. But so is their determination to end the persistent cycle of cattle raiding, abductions, and sexual violence that plague this region of South Sudan.

“Children should not migrate to go to the cattle camp in the 21^stcentury. Children should migrate to go to school,” states Pia Philip, the Undersecretary for the Ministry of Peace Building.

His passion for empowering youth to reach their full potential rather than being forced into a life of crime set the tone for discussions at a National Accountability Conference, supported by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), to develop robust new systems to strengthen accountability and rule of law as a pathway to sustainable peace.

For generations, Dinka, Lou Nuer and Murle communities across Jonglei and the GPAA have suffered huge harm from intercommunal violence, characterized by cattle-raiding, abduction of women and children, and sexual violence.

Research commissioned by UNMISS’ Rule of Law and Security Institutions Section found these practices are not cultural, but rather financially driven, in an environment of scarce resources, political conflict, intercommunal tensions and limited infrastructure and services. While the challenges are complex and deeply ingrained in the social fabric, the leaders of both areas believe the political will exists to change.

“We want peace within our respective areas and among our neighbours because we need each other. Without peace, we cannot have development,” says Atong Kuol Manyang, Jonglei State Deputy Governor. “We want the same peace that others enjoy, but it can only be achieved by working together with the support of partners.”

“The Government of Greater Pibor envisions a peaceful prosperity and inclusive areas where citizens live harmoniously and with respect for the rule of law,” says Alfred Agaya, Deputy Chief Administrator of the GPAA. “This mission is not just words on paper. It is a call to action for each of us to move beyond rhetoric towards an actionable plan.”

UNMISS is providing intensive support to these efforts, including building infrastructure and the capacity of the justice system.