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A MISSING TARGET: Peace Dialogue with Nimule Gangs

Mayor's Press Unit. 
Nimule's social issues do not fit the typical definition of gang-related activity. Instead, we are dealing with juvenile crimes committed by adolescents transitioning from childhood to adulthood. These minors need guidance and support to get back on track. 

In 2023, I attended a peace dialogue workshop at St Francis Conference Hall with this group, aimed at empowering them. Unfortunately, the organisers (most of the organisations came from Torit under the leadership of the director general in the state ministry of youth and culture) failed to follow through on their promises. I was one of the used and discarded participants. Many young people gave up their habits, hoping to start small businesses or receive scholarships, but those promises were empty. 

The group continues to regroup, struggling to survive economically. With the mayor planning another peace dialogue, I am sceptical about the outcome. Without immediate action, the town may face further instability. Making promises is easy, but following through requires significant effort and resources. 

Nimule can be stabilised easily if we empower locals economically, provide better access to business opportunities, and clearly define boundaries in commerce to engage struggling teens and youths. These young people should be involved in providing security in their communities. 

Apart from that, there is the control of drug abuse. Drugs like Tramadol should be removed from pharmacies and labelled as high-risk drugs that should only be supplied in hospitals. I have frequently witnessed the abuse of tramadol by these young teenagers. Other drug substances include bangi and marungi, among others that I have not come across. 

The peace dialogue is a good start, but it is not enough. The real issue is the country's faltering economy, which does not favour peace. To solve a problem, we need to understand its root cause and address the underlying issue to prevent the problem from recurring. 

In summary, Nimule can return to stability if the locals are empowered economically, drug consumption is controlled, and the youth are involved in managing the security of the community. Above all, the implementation of all resolutions is a key aspect that should be governed by the bylaws of the council.


Abunerry, Ayella 

Kotev, Mavker and Rabbi.

Nimule, Resident. 


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