Promoting Peace through Markets: Lakes, Warrap, and Unity States Should Establish Peace Markets for Coexistence
By: Paul Dhel Gum

Introduction

In South Sudan, intercommunal conflict along state borders has long been a source of instability, insecurity, and underdevelopment. The border areas of Lakes, Warrap, and Unity states are some of the most volatile in the country, frequently plagued by cattle raiding, revenge killings, and inter-clan disputes. However, amid these challenges lies a powerful opportunity, the establishment of peace markets as neutral, service equipped zones where citizens can engage in trade, access basic services, and foster peaceful coexistence.

The Role of Peace Markets in Conflict Mitigation

Peace markets are more than trading hubs; they are community meeting points that encourage dialogue, cooperation, and trust among people from different ethnic or clan backgrounds. By promoting economic interdependence and regular social interactions, peace markets can help break down hostilities and prevent conflict. In regions where violence is often driven by competition over resources, establishing shared economic spaces can be a strong deterrent to conflict.

Madol: A Strategic Joint Area for Peacebuilding

Madol, a border area linking Tonj East (Warrap State), Rumbek North (Lakes State), and Panyijiar and Mayendit counties (Unity State), holds strategic importance for peacebuilding. This location, frequently caught in intercommunal tensions, could serve as a model peace zone. Establishing a permanent town in Madol with a central peace market, clean water points, a Primary Health Care Centre (PHCC), and a jointly-manned security post would address the key drivers of conflict, lack of access to basic services and insecurity.

Bringing together traders, elders, youth, and women from the neighboring communities in Tonj East, Rumbek North, Panyijiar, and Mayendit would build intercommunal trust and improve livelihoods. A well-organized market in Madol would also reduce cattle raiding by increasing economic alternatives and promoting peaceful means of wealth acquisition.

Mangol Apuk: Another Critical Peace Frontier

Mangol Apuk, another crucial conflict hotspot, lies at the intersection of Tonj North, Gogrial East, parts of Gogrial West, and Twic (Warrap State), as well as Mayom County (Unity State). It has historically been a flashpoint for armed conflict and inter-communal violence. The establishment of another peace town here, equipped with a well-functioning market, health services, water points, and a strong presence of joint security forces, would similarly help pacify the region.

The integration of services and security would serve as both a peace dividend and a practical deterrent against violence. Communities would be more likely to protect the peace infrastructure if they see direct economic and social benefits.

Benefits of Peace Markets
1. Economic Empowerment: Peace markets stimulate local economies, create jobs, and open new opportunities for trade across community lines.
2. Social Cohesion: Regular interaction through trade fosters dialogue, tolerance, and cooperation.
3. Conflict Prevention: Access to essential services and increased community presence discourages violence and enhances accountability.
4. Government Presence: The establishment of these towns reinforces state authority and provides a platform for service delivery and development.

Conclusion

The governments of Lakes, Warrap, and Unity states, in collaboration with national authorities, NGOs, and international partners, should prioritize the establishment of peace markets in Madol and Mangol Apuk. These zones could become centers of hope, resilience, and development in some of South Sudan’s most fragile areas. By investing in these shared spaces, the three states can transform conflict-prone borders into bridges of peace, unity, and shared prosperity.

Peace does not happen by accident, it must be built. And peace markets can be the foundation. With Riek Bim, Bol Wek and Rin Tueny as Governors for Unity, Warrap and Lakes states, our hopes for peaceful coexistence are reignited.