Azande and Balanda Communities Join Forces to Address Tombura Violence
Azande and Balanda Communities Join Forces to Address Tombura Violence
By Waure Eddy
In a landmark effort to restore peace, the government of Western Equatoria State has established a joint investigation team comprising representatives from the Azande and Balanda communities to address escalating violence in Tombura County.
The initiative, led by Governor Lt. Gen. Alfred Futuyo Karaba and Deputy Governor Hon. Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, representatives from the Azande and Balanda communities and members of the SPLM and SPLM-IO political factions.
marks a significant step toward reconciliation and justice.
The gathering focused on fostering collaboration to identify the root causes of the conflict that has left a trail of destruction, including killings, displacement, and property loss.
The 30-member team, comprising 15 representatives from each community—will travel to Tambura County to engage directly with affected residents, investigate grievances, and propose solutions for restoring peace.
“This mission is one of unity and healing,” Deputy Governor Badagbu emphasized. “The team’s role is to investigate, mediate, and help calm the situation in Tambura, where so many have suffered immense losses. We must work together to end this cycle of violence.”
The state government, in collaboration with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), will provide logistical support for the mission.
The move comes as a critical response to years of tension and violence, with many hoping this collaborative effort will mark the beginning of a new chapter for Western Equatoria State.