UNISFA Pledges Support for Safe Migration Season in Abyei

The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) has pledged its full support for implementing a safe migration season for cattle in Abyei. 

This commitment follows an agreement reached on Thursday between the Misseriya and Dinka Ngok communities for peaceful migration across the western, central, and eastern corridors of Abyei.

The agreement was signed at the conclusion of a pre-migration conference, and according to a statement from UNISFA, Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Robert Afrah promised to support the agreement's outcomes to ensure a peaceful migration period.

“We are encouraged by the active participation of women and youth, showcasing a growing commitment to inclusive decision-making,” said Major General Afrah, emphasizing the need for their greater involvement in peace negotiations.

Community Commitment and Inclusive Dialogues

The conference, held from December 9 to 12 in the village of Noong, northern Abyei, saw the participation of 154 representatives from the Misseriya and Dinka Ngok communities. The event marked a notable increase in youth and women’s involvement compared to previous meetings.

Leaders from both communities committed to protecting their populations along migration routes, collaborating with UNISFA to ensure accountability and apprehend violators. The agreement also included organizing livestock movements, developing guidelines for environmental management, and ensuring sustainable resource sharing.

Managing Cross-Border Migration

The Misseriya community, known for their cattle herding, migrate southward into South Sudan at the end of the rainy season for grazing, returning when the rains begin. These migrations occur through three corridors in Abyei, a disputed region claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan.

The pre-migration “peace” conference was organized by UNISFA in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Concordis International.

Abyei's Strategic Importance

The oil-rich Abyei region remains a focal point of contention between Sudan and South Sudan, with ongoing border disputes exacerbated by the conflict in Sudan. UNISFA continues to monitor the area, ensuring it remains a demilitarized zone while supporting local communities.