BUTTERWORTH, EASTERN CAPE – Rival youth groups from Dyosini and Mkwayi villages have signed a peace agreement. The agreement aims to end years of faction fighting in Ward 11.
The peace meeting took place at Maclay Senior Primary School on 15 July 2026. SAPS, parents, traditional leaders and government stakeholders attended the meeting. About 18 young men pledged to end the violence and work together.
Youths Hand Over Homemade Weapons
After the meeting, SAPS Station Commanders from the Amathole District Cluster visited homes in the affected villages. During the visits, the young men voluntarily surrendered homemade weapons.The weapons included bush knives, axes and bayonets. Police confiscated them to reduce the risk of further violence and improve community safety.
Community Focuses on Lasting Peace
However, community leaders said peace requires more than signing an agreement. They encouraged young people to take part in sports tournaments and extracurricular activities.In addition, stakeholders believe these programmes will reduce substance and alcohol abuse. They also hope they will strengthen relationships between the two villages.
Traditional Leaders Welcome the Breakthrough
Chairperson of the Mnquma Initiation Forum, Nkosi Thabile Vuso, led the peace initiative. Chieftainesses Zanele Mthulu and Nokonwaba Dyosini also supported the process.They welcomed the agreement and expressed hope that it would bring lasting peace, unity and stability to the affected communities.Meanwhile, residents have praised the breakthrough. They believe the peace agreement offers a fresh start after years of conflict.
ECNewsLive will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on the implementation of the peace agreement.
