Gender, Business, and Social Capital in the Abyei Area between the Two Sudans

ABSTRACT This article statistically examines how competitive communities perceive conflict, cooperation, and social cohesion drivers across the borders of two Sudans. We found that perceptions differ by gender, relationship types, and the assets competing groups depend on for their livelihoods. Social cohesion in Abyei appears gendered and asset-based, with Ngok women reporting greater mistrust of their Missiriya neighbors. These women also see business opportunities to rebuild the trust across ethnic groups in the agro-pastoral economy. Supporting narratives and programs that support business for peace in Abyei may serve social construction for peace and open more holistic dimensions of social contract making.