U.S academic researches on Jieng culture in Lakes State

U.S based academic Manu Ampim has undertaken extensive research on the Dinka culture in a bid to make the world understand the unknown secrets behind the culture.
Manu Ampim (2nd R) in a group photo with some of the elders in Lakes State.

By Mayak Majak Madit Tokjok

U.S based academic Manu Ampim has undertaken extensive research on the Dinka culture in a bid to make the world understand the unknown secrets behind the culture.

Ampin a professor for African Studies at Contra Costa College in San Pablo, California arrived in Lakes State on July 27 and carried out research in Rumbek East, Rumbek Center, Wulu and Cueibet counties.

The research included studying spear masters, use of leopard skin feathers of an ostrich, and marking of foreheads.

 These practices have been carried out by the Dinka community for centuries.

Ampin spoke to community elders, chiefs and spear masters in order to understand the inter-generational cultural practices which are still alive today.

The researcher also visited shrines in Luak Makuer Gol, Wulu, Cueei Pan Gop in Rumbek East and  Cueibet County where he witnessed locals interacting with their Gods.

The locals interact with the Gods when in need of divine healing from diseases and riches.

Deer Makuer Gol, Senior Spear Master in Lakes State said that spear masters wear leopard skins to distinguish themselves from wrestlers and traditional dancers.

He noted the feathers of an ostrich are meant for decoration of young youth in the process of marriage.

Ampin’s research was facilitated by Maj. Gen Abraham Mayek Gum, the director general for administration and finance at the national wildlife authority and Brig. Gen Siso Mapuol Makeny, deputy director for Administration and finance of wildlife authority in Lakes State.

The U.S based researcher had previously Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt.

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