South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Awan Achiek
The Pojulu Community of Lainya County in Central Equatoria State is set to launch the second edition of the cultural festival in Juba.
The three-day festival expected to take place from May 10 to May 12, 2025, aimed to promote cultural norms and values of the Pajulu Community.
The event will be held under the theme “Friendship Among Communities Can Unite South Sudan.”
Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro, the chairperson of the Pojulu Community and minister of cabinet affairs, said this year’s festival will be attended by 7,000 participants from various areas.
“This year’s celebration is expected to welcome more than 15,000 Pojulu delegates from Juba, Lainya, Yei, and Terekeka Counties and the diaspora, along with invited representatives from all 63 communities in South Sudan,” Lomuro told journalists at a press conference in Juba on Sunday.
Lomuro said this festival serves as a cultural showcase and a platform for dialogue, unity, and healing, especially during a time when the country is striving for national cohesion and peace.
He said the theme—”Friendship Among Communities Can Unite South Sudan”—reflects the Pojulu people’s dedication to national harmony.
“And their belief that embracing cultural diversity and building friendships across communities is essential for sustaining peace across South Sudan.”
He said the festival will include activities such as showcasing cultural values, storytelling, music, dance, drama, food, and traditional attire.
“Their rich cultural heritage reflects a blend of values, traditions, and arts that are deeply rooted in history and community identity.”
He said these cultural expressions serve as vital tools for social bonding, emotional healing, and passing down knowledge from one generation to the next.
“As such, the festival plays a crucial role in preserving these traditions while promoting social cohesion and national identity,” he said.
He stated it aims to raise awareness about the importance of cultural preservation in the face of modern influences and enhance creativity and talent through traditional music, attire, and performances.
He disclosed that the festival will be attended by cultural groups, community associations, youth and women’s unions, traditional leaders, and government officials, alongside the Ministry of Culture, Heritage, and Museums, NGOs, and UN agencies that support cultural and community development.
“The Pojulu community enthusiastically welcomes everyone to join this significant cultural gathering, where friendships can flourish, and a shared identity can be joyfully celebrated in harmony,” he said.
The first edition of the cultural festival was held in Juba in May 2024, which drew in over 15,000 participants from Lainya, Yei, Terekeka, and the diaspora.
The Pojulu people originate from various counties in Central Equatoria—namely Lainya, Yei, Wonduruba, Juba, and Terekeka.
