Representatives of the Otuho, Lopit, Lango, Pari and Tenet communities are convening in Hiyala area of Eastern Equatoria State for a four-day peace and reconciliation conference that kicked off on Sunday.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Monday, Eastern Equatoria Governor Louis Lobong said: “Yesterday [Sunday], I was in Hiyala to witness the peace conference among the Otuho community who have for long been fighting over cattle thefts and land disputes. “

The governor further said there had been longstanding disputes between rival communities in Eastern Equatoria State over cattle and land, many of which are not yet resolved.

Separately, the state governor said heavy rains destroyed farmers’ crops in the state, expressing fears that residents could face hunger and starvation.

He urged the national government and aid agencies to intervene.