Cattle rustling is a widespread and long-standing practice in South Sudan, taking the lives of many people. Over 2,000 deaths are recorded each year from different tribal conflicts.
Since cattle are considered the greatest wealth, they are highly targeted. Some tribes believe that all cows are given to them by God, which is why they take any cattle they find.
It is unfortunate that some people use cattle raiding as a way to fuel political violence, disrupting the ruling government. Raiders are militarily trained and heavily armed with guns.
It may shock visitors to see young boys carrying guns, but owning a gun is common in South Sudan.
After raiding some areas, attackers steal from military bases, allowing them to acquire powerful weapons such as rocket-propelled grenades and AK-47s.
In the past, raiders used spears, but today they use modern firearms, which have worsened the situation. Many of these guns come from within South Sudan.
The Impact of Cattle Raiding
Bloodshed is widespread, but the situation was most intense during the Bor Massacre in the early 1990s. Riek Machar mobilized local herders to launch a deadly attack against the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA), led by John Garang. This attack caused immense pain, leaving many widows and orphans behind.
The Nuer White Army is known for its involvement in these conflicts, which is heartbreaking, as people continue to die over cattle. Many anti-government groups take advantage of this violence to create tension in the country, without caring about the innocent lives lost.
Most attacks happen in remote and rural areas, which is why tourists are advised not to cross borders or visit deep villages without armed escorts.
During the Murle and Luo Nuer conflicts, over 276 people lost their lives between December 23, 2011, and February 4, 2012. This was followed by another deadly incident on February 8, 2013, where half of the total deaths recorded occurred within just six weeks.
The Importance of Cattle
Cattle have many uses, including:
- Providing nourishment – Milk is a major source of food.
- Cow dung – Used as ash for mosquito repellent.
- Urine – Some tribes use it to turn their hair brown.
In some South Sudanese communities, a man who gives many cows as dowry is allowed to marry multiple wives. The community sees him as a wealthy man capable of supporting a large family.
Stopping Cattle Rustling
Cattle rustling must be stopped to save the lives of innocent victims.
