The Chie-Bhol and Chie-Mankhoat sub-clans in Akobo County of Jonglei State have marked one year of peace since they signed a peace agreement.
The anniversary celebrations on Sunday, that were attended by an estimated 600 people, were supported by USAID Shejeh Salam, through GEC, 98.5 Akobo FM and other partners.
The peace agreement ended eight years of conflict which killed over 43 people from 2015 – 2024.
The anniversary event was proceeded by peace rallies organized in Wech-Goak and Meer that are inhabited by the two former enemies.
During the celebrations, people danced, key stakeholders gave speeches, which promoted peaceful co-existence, and the two clans feasted together for the first time.
The 2023 peace resolutions included:
1. The two sub-clans accepted to forgive each and refrain from revenge.
2. They agreed to pay the blood compensation for the people killed during the conflict.
3. The sub-clans banned hate songs and speeches with immediate effect.
4. Chiefs from each community were directed to recover stolen livestock and report to the county authorities within the agreed timeline, with any failure earning a suspension.
5. Local authority to supervise the payment of blood compensations and elders to perform rituals to pronounce a curse on whoever recomposes hate songs and or carries out revenge.
6. The two sub-clans to adopt restorative justice approach to rebuilding the broken relationship.
7. Free movement of all people from both sides. The displaced educated community members to return home.
8. Villages deserted due to violence to be re-occupied by the former residents without fear.
9. Importation of Ouzo (wine) from Ethiopia and use of bhang (Marijuana) banned.
Speaking after the dialogue, Chie-Mankhoat youth leader Deng Reat said they were all committed to safeguarding the peace.
A youth leader from Chie-Bhol clan, Thijin Ruot, said all the residents of Akobo were for the gesture of forgiveness.
Elder Martha Nyachieng Chuol said they had suffered for many years in search of peace and their children engaged in killings that aggravated the hunger situation.
“Today, our children have agreed to never fight again, I have seen peace in them. They have agreed to be together and our radio has been supporting our voice to reach this agreement and we are happy for that, she said.