Armed Ambororo Herders Threaten Farming and Security in Tokori Boma

(TOKORI BOMA / YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Local authorities in Tokori Boma of Lasu Payam in Yei River County have raised alarm over the increasing presence of armed Ambororo cattle herders, warning that the situation is posing a serious security threat to residents and undermining farming activities in the area.

Tokori Boma community Chairperson Khamis Yatta told Access Radio that the number of armed herders has continued to grow, creating fear among local communities who depend largely on agriculture for their livelihoods.

According to Yatta, the herders move from one area to another with their livestock, while their cattle reportedly graze on cultivated land and destroy crops belonging to local farmers.

“As I speak now, the number of Mbororo cattle herders is increasing every day. Their cattle are feeding on people’s crops, and farmers are facing threats. Some residents have reported being intimidated and threatened with violence,” Yatta said.

He warned that the continued presence of the armed herders could disrupt the ongoing farming season and increase tensions between local communities and the pastoralists.

The chairperson appealed to both the county and state governments to intervene urgently to prevent further deterioration of the security situation.

“The people of Tokori depend on farming as their main source of livelihood. These herders are entering people’s farmland without their consent, and this is creating fear and uncertainty. We are asking the government to investigate where they are coming from and take appropriate action so that our people can live in peace,” he said.

Residents fear that if swift action is not taken, more families could abandon their farms and relocate to safer areas, affecting food production and household incomes.

The concerns come amid reports that at least three people were shot dead in Tokori Boma last weekend, although authorities have not yet released official details regarding the circumstances of the killings.

Community leaders are now calling for enhanced security measures and dialogue to address the growing tensions and protect both lives and livelihoods in the area.