UNMISS supports tribal peace ceremonies in Turkaka

Mandari communities traditionally celebrate peace during the cultural festival in Tarkaka
Central tropical.
Mandari communities are known for their pastoral lifestyle, where livestock are sacred as currency, a symbol of social status, and a source of identity.
Despite being a source of wealth and luxury, these precious creatures have also been the cause of a long history of violent clashes, due to disputes over territory and scarce resources.
As pressures increase as a result of escalating politically motivated conflicts and climate shocks, the need to strengthen unity among these communities is more important than ever.
For many years, these groups from across Central Equatoria have gathered in Turkaka for a special annual festival that celebrates their diverse cultural traditions and reinforces their shared identity.
This year's event was dedicated to promoting social cohesion.
"I feel very proud today as well, as we celebrate an important moment for all South Sudanese. The coming together of 64 tribes in Tarkaka shows our strength, unity and commitment to peace in our country," Betty Abio Gajok Kurnyang explained during the event.
Featuring other ethnic groups, including the Shilluk and Nuer, the festival highlighted South Sudan's rich cultural diversity through performances of music, dance, stories, food, arts and traditional sports, including a spirited wrestling match.
“Peace is not just written in agreements or discussed in conference halls, it is sung, danced, taught and practiced in communities,” said Graham Maitland, head of the UN Mission in South Sudan, which is supporting the event. “Peace is your right, and our role is to walk with you to support and protect it.”
The event served as a “living museum” in which traditional practices were on display to ensure their continuity for future generations. The festival celebrated the ancient spirit of the Mundari people and promoted peace, business opportunities and development.
“Culture brings communities together,” said Siham Jamal, a youth leader from Kapoeta. “I am absolutely certain that one of the problems we face is our lack of cultural centers that bring people together as brothers and sisters, united and not divided.”
The focus was on how to develop heritage conservation programs to ensure the continued preservation of cultural heritage, while exploring potential tourism opportunities that would benefit all residents.
“This land holds stories older than any institution,” Maitland said, “stories preserved through song, dance, language and ritual.” He added: “By coming together, this community sent a strong message, preferring peace over violence, unity over division, and hope over fear.”