The Azande Kingdom launched its inaugural cultural festival in Western Equatoria State on Friday, a two-day event designed to champion peace and unity in a region striving for stability.
Held under the theme “Celebrating Our Unity Through Cultural Diversity,” the festival at Yambio Freedom Square brought together hundreds of people from communities across the state to showcase traditional music, dance and crafts.
The event, organized by the kingdom with support from the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative (WPDI) and other partners, aimed to foster dialogue and mutual respect amid the diverse ethnic landscape of South Sudan.
In his opening remarks, Western Equatoria’s Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Charles Gamboripai Gideon, endorsed the festival as a vital tool for social cohesion.
“This initiative brings our people together to celebrate the diversity that makes us strong,” Gideon said. He urged the kingdom and its partners to hold such events regularly to relieve community stress and reinforce social harmony.
The Azande Kingdom, a historic institution that predates colonial rule, was officially restored in February 2022.
The Azande Kingdom was restored after 117 years since King Gbudue was killed by the British colonialists in 1905. The great-grandson of King Gbudue, Atoroba Peni Rikito Gbudue, was then installed as the new King on Gbudue day.
Tadeo Mario Sasa, the kingdom’s prime minister, emphasized its inclusive nature.
“This kingdom belongs to all the 64 tribes of South Sudan. It stands for unity, peace, and cultural pride for every community,” Sasa said, framing the festival as a celebration for all tribes in the state and the nation.
The call for unity was echoed with a note of caution by Dr. Mande Daniel, program coordinator for the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative. He pointed to the dangers of ethnic division, drawing a stark lesson from the 1994 genocide in Rwanda.
“We are all South Sudanese. Let us avoid tribalism and promote peace and togetherness,” Mande said. “Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative will continue supporting efforts that unite our people.”
Sebit Anglo Obebe, the Azande Kingdom’s minister for other tribes, commended the current peaceful relations between ethnic groups and urged communities to continue living in harmony.
“This kingdom is for everyone — regardless of tribe or background — and we must continue to promote unity and love among ourselves,” Obebe added.
Organizers said the festival, which runs through Saturday, provides a platform for cultural exchange and is a cornerstone of the kingdom’s broader commitment to preserving cultural heritage while promoting peace among all residents of Western Equatoria State.
South Sudan’s rich cultural heritage, drawn from more than 60 distinct ethnic groups, represents a deep well of resilience and national potential, according to observers.