SUMMARY

The Apuk Giir and Marial Wau are two ethnic communities residing in West Bahr-al-Ghazal state. The Apuk Giir are a sub-group of the Rek Dinka, primarily living in areas along the border between Warap and West Bahr-al-Ghazal states. The Marial Wau community, meanwhile, is located in the greater Wau area, a historically contested region home to multiple ethnic groups.

The conflict between the Apuk Giir and Marial Wau is rooted in competing claims over grazing lands and agricultural areas. Tensions have been exacerbated by unclear administrative boundaries, as well as historical grievances over territorial claims. Additionally, competition over land and political representation within local governance structures has further deepened divisions between the two groups.

The non-state conflict between Apuk Giir and Marial Wau was first included in UCDP data in 2024. In February of that year, clashes over a land dispute resulted in over 25 battle-related deaths.