The continued tension and violence between Sudan and South Sudan have all but evolved into full-blown war.South Sudan seceded from the north last year after decades of armed rebellion led by the Sudanese People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) – now the leaders of the world’s youngest nation. In less than a year since the South Sudan voted overwhelmingly for Independence, the two countries are embroiled in bitter confrontation over disputed oil-rich areas that lie along their common border.Last week, South Sudan’s military dislodged Khartoum’s army from the Heglieg region, only for the latter to retake the area days later. Both sides have traded accusations over engaging in proxy wars against each other.However, both countries have a mutual interest in peace and good neighbourliness. South Sudan, being a new nation and having previously been part of Sudan, naturally still counts on Khartoum for key essentials, including the oil pipeline and other infrastructure. On the other hand, the north will need the goodwill of its neighbour to secure its own oilfields which lie close to South Sudan, as well as other business interests.They can’t do without the other, at least for now.Besides, the tension only plays into the hands of armed groups in the region, which could further compromise the security situation across the region, including in Darfur.In view of that, both sides must end hostilities, and seek to resolve their differences amicably.In addition, the African Union must step in and help find a lasting solution to the crisis. The East African Community Partner States, collectively or individually, must equally help prevent further escalation of the situation because it would have dire consequences to the wider region.The east African region has enough problems already; another conflict is the last thing it needs.
