Violent confrontations between rival cattle herder groups in South Sudan led to the death of 39 individuals, with dozens more injured, according to officials on Friday.
The clashes occurred on Wednesday, causing 19 deaths and 17 injuries among herders from northwest Warrap, as reported by the state’s information minister, William Wol Mayom Bol.
The violence, an annual recurrence during the dry season, is attributed to disputes over resources between cattle herding communities from Warrap and Lakes State.
Despite efforts to de-escalate tensions and protect civilians, minor clashes are still reported in inaccessible swampy areas, said police spokesman Major Elijah Mabor Makuac.
South Sudan, grappling with prolonged conflicts, natural disasters, hunger, and economic challenges, faces recurring communal conflicts.
Last weekend, a dispute in a contested region claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan resulted in 54 casualties, including two United Nations peacekeepers.
