SUMMARY

The conflict between the Anuak and the Dinka took place in Fugnido refugee camp in Gambella region, south-western Ethiopia. Located close to the border of Sudan, Fugnito is the largest camp for Sudanese refugees in Ethiopia. It provides food and shelter for some 28 700 people, half of which are Nuers, a third Anuaks, and around 11 percent Dinkas. The camp is unfenced and weapons are readily available, mainly from across the border. According to analysts, there had been inter-ethnic tensions simmering earlier during the year. Furthermore, Dinkarefugees are reported to have some affiliations with the Sudanese SPLM/A, which is said to be fuelling the conflict.

The non-state conflict between the Anuak and the Dinka is first included in the UCDP data in 2002. In November of that year, a dispute between Anuak and Dinka tribesmen over control of the camp’s Minority Refugee Committee turned violent. Following the first clash, armed Anuak opened fire indiscriminately on Dinka refugees and the 25 battle-related deaths threshold was crossed.