By James Innocent
Thousands of cattle have reportedly entered Lainya County in Central Equatoria State once again, triggering renewed concerns among local authorities and residents over crop destruction, displacement, and insecurity.
Lainya County Commissioner Robert Lasu John Morris said cattle herders believed to be from the Bor and Mundari communities have moved into farming areas, damaging crops and forcing some residents to flee their homes. He described the situation as alarming but urged calm among the local population.
“The community should remain calm as the government is working on measures to address the challenges posed by the cattle herders,” Morris said, adding that he recently travelled to Juba to mobilize resources and consult with national authorities on possible solutions.
Local youth leaders have also voiced concern. Emmanuel Khemis, a youth leader in Lainya County, said the presence of armed cattle herders has created fear among residents and disrupted daily life. He called for national-level intervention to prevent further escalation.
According to Khemis, the herders’ cattle have destroyed farms and food crops, particularly cassava fields that many households depend on for food security. Several residents echoed these concerns, saying their gardens have been trampled and food supplies looted, worsening already fragile living conditions.
A concerned resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said crops ready for harvest had been destroyed, leaving families struggling to meet basic needs. “Our cassava is being uprooted, and some food items are being taken from homes,” the resident said.
The issue of cattle migration has been a long-standing challenge in Lainya County. In 2023, clashes linked to cattle herders reportedly displaced thousands of civilians in areas such as Mukaya and Kufera, resulting in loss of life and property, according to local authorities and community leaders.
At the time, the then Governor of Central Equatoria State, Emmanuel Adil Anthony, formed a committee tasked with relocating cattle keepers back to their areas of origin. However, officials say many herders continue to move within Central Equatoria State.
Agricultural communities across the region have repeatedly complained that uncontrolled cattle movement disrupts farming activities, contributes to insecurity, and affects local markets by driving up food prices.
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to find a lasting solution, as residents call for stronger enforcement and protection of farming communities.