South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Waure Eddy
The Azande Kingdom made history this weekend with the launch of its inaugural Cultural Festival, held at Yambio Freedom Square.
This two-day celebration, themed “Celebrating Our Unity through Cultural Diversity,” united communities from Nvolo to Kubiri Boor in a vibrant showcase of traditional dances, foods, and shared heritage.
The festival aimed to promote peaceful coexistence and condemn violence among the diverse tribes of Western Equatoria State (WES), a region that has endured years of conflict and fragmentation.
His Majesty King Atoroba Peni Rikito Gbudue, the custodian of the Azande Kingdom, emphasised that the kingdom belongs to all tribes residing in WES, not just the Azande people.
“Without other tribes in the kingdom, it cannot develop alone,” King Atoroba declared. “But with the involvement of other tribes, we will progress faster. Today, I have seen various tribes here; that is what the kingdom needs: unity among all tribes.”
The King praised the Dinka community for preserving their milk tradition and encouraged all ethnic groups to maintain and uplift their cultures.
He clarified that the Azande Kingdom does not seek to overshadow other traditions but aims to serve as a platform for cultural cooperation and mutual respect.
The festival also marked a significant milestone in building partnerships. Mr. Mande Daniel, Programme Coordinator for the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative, expressed gratitude to the King for welcoming their collaboration.
“Peace has come to unite all tribes like this—it’s not easy, but the King has made it possible,” said Daniel. He announced that Whitaker has secured funding to train chiefs, women leaders, and youth leaders under the kingdom’s peace framework.
Acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, H.E. Justin Joseph Marona, commended the King’s leadership in organising the event, which he described as a beacon of reconciliation.
“The state has experienced violence and crisis, but the government is working diligently for lasting peace,” Marona stated. “We are acting under the directive of H.E. General Salva Kiir Mayardit to restore peace, security, and social coexistence.”
Marona also acknowledged the presence of Congolese, Ugandan, and Central African communities, affirming that their participation signifies a shared commitment to unity. “We need to treat them as one family,” he urged. “Let’s unite together.”
As the drums faded and the dancers rested, the festival’s message remained clear: peace is achievable when cultures are celebrated, voices are heard, and communities come together as one. The Azande Cultural Festival has not only revived traditions; it has reignited hope for a more united Western Equatoria.
