The Amiet Common Market in the Abyei region, located on the border between Sudan and South Sudan, has reopened after a two-week closure. The market was shut down following a surge in violence that resulted in at least 26 fatalities and 82 injuries. Community peace committees representing the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities had agreed to reopen the market. This decision was made during a meeting in Todaj village, chaired by the Pakistani battalion of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA).
The agreement to reopen the market included a plan to share security responsibilities between UNISFA, community police, and young people from both communities. Furthermore, the committees agreed to prevent unauthorised forces from entering the market and to withdraw combat vehicles and weapons from the area by October 10. This move aims to restore stability and ensure the market can operate safely for traders and visitors.
The violence that led to the market's closure erupted on September 15. This incident followed the separate killings of a Ngok Dinka man and a Misseriya man, which heightened tensions between the two communities. In response to the violence, UNISFA reinforced its presence around Amiet and has maintained an enhanced security presence. The organisation continues to work with community leaders to prevent further retaliation.
Sultan Belbek Ding, a Ngok Dinka leader, confirmed that the market had reopened. However, he noted that several issues remained unresolved. According to Belbek, the detailed points on the market and its methods of operation have not yet been fully resolved. The committees plan to meet again to address these outstanding issues.
One of the key issues to be discussed is whether the market will include accommodation or operate solely as a trading site. The initial agreement is for trading only, with residential areas kept separate. This decision aims to prevent further conflicts and ensure the market's operations do not exacerbate existing tensions.
The parties involved are also awaiting the arrival of the Misseriya administration from Nyala, expected on Saturday. This meeting will address outstanding issues, including discussing the previous violence and its victims. The joint agreement was signed by representatives of the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya peace and youth committees, with UNISFA officials signing as witnesses.
The reopening of the Amiet Common Market marks a significant step towards restoring peace and normalcy in the Abyei region. The agreement demonstrates the commitment of community leaders and UNISFA to work together to prevent further violence and promote stability. Key points include:
Key points
- The Amiet Common Market reopened after a two-week closure due to violence.
- The market's security will be shared between UNISFA, community police, and youth from both communities.
- The committees agreed to withdraw combat vehicles and weapons from the market by October 10.
