Governments of the four states of Greater Bahr el-Ghazal convened at the weekend in Aweil to discuss matters of unity, peace and security in their respective states.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Saturday in Aweil, the Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Nyibol Ajonga, said the meeting was aimed at boosting unity, peace and security within the four states of Greater Bahr el-Ghazal (Warrap, Lakes, Northern Bahr el-Ghazal and Western Bahr el-Ghazal).  She placed particular emphasis on resolving disputes within Warrap and Lakes state where cattle raiding is an ongoing problem.

“This conference concerns the four states of Greater Bahr el-Ghazal and the agenda covered unity among these states, finding solution for the problems that occur amongst the pastoralists between Warrap and Lakes state,” stated Nyibol.

The minister explained the importance of the meeting in comprehensively addressing matters of peace, unity, security and education among the four states.

Although a similar forum took place in Wau, Western Bahr el-Ghazal state last year, this recent forum is the first to primarily address issues of regional insecurity.   It was reported that it will continue and will be hosted rotationally in each of the four states.

This region has witnessed a lot of insecurity including cattle raiding.  A recent outbreak of cattle-related violence in Lakes resulting in 25 deaths was followed by the dismissal of the Lakes state governor, Chol Tong Mayay although the reasons for his departure were not made public.

Similarly, Western Bahr el-Ghazal state experienced some of its worst fighting for years late last year when clashes took place in the capital Wau following the decision to relocate county headquarters to Baggari outside of the town.

It is not known whether a Greater Upper Nile Forum like will be formed to coordinate on issues affecting Jonglei, Upper Nile and Unity states.  However, the Greater Equatoria Conference was held this month in Juba and matters for discussion included unity, strengthening the economy between Eastern, Western and Central Equatoria states.  A call for federalism in South Sudan was made during these meetings.