The Derik Cultural Festival is set to return for its sixth edition in Juba next week, starting from 7th November to 14th November 2026, with organizers calling for greater recognition of culture as a tool for peacebuilding and reconciliation in South Sudan.
Speaking at a press conference in Juba on Monday, Mathiang Cirilo, chairperson of the organizing committee, announced that this year’s festival will be held under the theme “Advancing Peace Through Culture.”
“As one of our nation’s most prominent figures, he left behind a celebrated legacy that continues to inspire,” Cirilo said.
According to the organizing chairperson, the annual event honors the memory of the late Derik Uya Alfred, who dedicated his life to cultural development across Sudan and South Sudan.
“In keeping with this tradition, the festival’s sixth edition is themed “Advancing peace through culture.” This theme reaffirms our commitment to the vision of our mentor, Derik Alfred, who steadfastly viewed cultural engagement as a bridge to peace,” he said.
The committee said Alfred left behind a legacy of cultural preservation and nation-building, with culture serving as an important instrument for fostering unity and reconciliation.
The sixth edition will also honor Professor Peter Adwok Nyaba for his intellectual contributions, particularly in promoting dialogue on governance and national affairs. The organizing committee described Nyaba’s concept of a “House of Nationalities” as an important framework for building a peaceful society through continuous dialogue.
“His intellectual contributions, marked by analytical rigor and clarity, have been vital in driving continuous dialogue on governance and reforms,” he stressed.
The festival is expected to feature various cultural events and activities at the University of Juba’s Main Campus in Atlabara.
In addition, Cirilo acknowledged the support of its partners, including the University of Juba’s School of Arts, Music and Drama, Al Markaz Al-Salam and Norwegian People’s Aid for their support towards the event.
Other sponsors include Digital Telecommunications, the Center for Strategic and Policy Studies, Zack for Print and Design, the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), Black Lion Medical Center, Fair Pharma and Million Items.
As the committee invited members of the public to participate in the week-long festival, registration for any cultural group, drama clubs, and individuals who wish to participate is free, and activities will be broadcast and updated live across the group’s official social media platforms.
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