Paper short abstract:

Sudan is still suffering social discontent after the secession of the Southern part. The multi-ethnic Butana region represents a unique experience of stability resort and peaceful co-existence which never took arms against the state, and where discontent is peacefully negotiated.

Paper long abstract:

Sudan as a multiethnic and multicultural country is still looking for a common formula to manage its diversities. It has been undergoing the longest civil war in Africa which ended in the secession of the mother land. Now, several complains are mounting in many other regions in the country. This paper intends to reflect the experience of the Butana region in Sudan which lies between the Blue Nile and Atbara River, and which has been exposed to various experiences that could have led to rebellion and protest as in other parts of the country. Yet, this region has historically been a source of stability in the country. It is resided by several tribes who are peacefully coexisting for a long time. The region incorporated all its problems, presuming negotiation and other nonviolent methods as tools for problem-solving. It has also accommodated all migrants (internal and external) and integrated them into the society. Moreover, the Shukria tribe as the leading group in the region never took arms against the state. This unique and exceptional manner in Sudan led to the consideration of the region as a stability and solidarity resort for conflicting partners as well as for the state.