The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through it VISTAS program, a peace-building program with the stated aim of helping communities, has handed over a new court building for the native administration in Anyidi area in Bor East County on Thursday.

Area head chief, Malaak Ayuen Mayen, applauded the USAID for donating the new traditional court building, saying it will relieve them from interruption during sessions.

“Previously, we used to hear cases under trees and when rains or wind come, the cases were being postponed. And now with this building even if rain comes, we can continue with the case with no distraction,” he said.

Ayuen further said the new court will solve cases of divorces, cattle thefts and child abductions between Jonglei and Boma states. He added that the facility will also enable them to keep the records of cases for future reference.

Community and youth leaders welcomed the facility and encouraged the organization to extend its support to other sectors like health and education.

For his part, Lawrence Peter, regional program manager, said the facility will strengthen the traditional authority in the payam to mitigate conflict in Jonglei state.

 “If you look at most issues leading to conflict in Jonglei state, first we have issues of cattle raiding and kidnapping of children and marriage disputes in the community and issues of conflict over land,” he said.

Peter said through USAID support, they were able also to establish similar facilities in Panyagoor and Duk Payuel areas.