SUMMARY

The Luac Jang Dinka and Pakam Dinka are two sub-groups of the Dinka ethnic group, the largest ethnic community in South Sudan. The Luac Jang Dinka are a section of the Rek Dinka, primarily inhabiting Tonj East and Tonj North counties of Warap state. The Pakam Dinka, on the other hand, are a subsection of the Agar Dinka, predominantly residing in Rumbek North country of Lakes state.

Both communities are pastoralist, relying on cattle herding as their primary source of wealth and social status. This dependence on cattle has historically fueled conflicts, particularly over grazing lands, water sources, and cattle raiding.

Violence between the Luac Jang Dinka and Pakam Dinka has been exacerbated by unclear border demarcations between Warap and Lakes states, as both groups claim disputed grazing areas. Additionally, cycles of revenge killings and cattle-raiding attacks have prolonged the conflict, with each side engaging in retaliatory raids. The proliferation of small arms among civilians has further intensified these clashes, making disputes deadlier.

The non-state conflict between the Luac Jang Dinka and Pakam Dinka was first included in UCDP data in 2023. That year, a series of violent clashes between the two communities resulted in at least 150 fatalities.