Speaking during the Pojulu Cultural Festival in Juba on Saturday, King Atoroba emphasized the critical role of culture in peacebuilding and fostering national identity.
“I am asking our government that they should help the Minister of Culture, so that this type of cultural festival practice should be supported to unite the community of South Sudan,” said the Azande monarch.
A Call for Investment in Culture
The king highlighted the need for greater financial support to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, enabling it to carry out cultural programs that unite communities and promote reconciliation in a nation still recovering from conflict.
“People without their culture are not people, and a country without its culture is not a country as well,” King Atoroba declared.
He noted that cultural events like the Pojulu Festival can eventually become economic assets, stating:
“If it was money that would bring people here, how much would you have made? There are things we can start that can bring us money in the future. Cultural celebrations are part of that.”
Celebrating Cultural Diversity
The Pojulu community, part of the Bari-speaking ethnic group in Central Equatoria State, hosted a vibrant festival showcasing traditional dances, music, attire, and food. The celebration drew hundreds of participants from various communities, including representatives of the Azande Kingdom from Western Equatoria State.
King Atoroba praised the event as a powerful symbol of national unity, adding that such celebrations are essential tools for peace and dialogue among ethnic groups.
Acknowledging Leadership and Youth Engagement
The Azande King extended special gratitude to Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro, the National Minister of Cabinet Affairs and a member of the Pojulu community, for supporting the festival. He urged other national leaders to follow his example in promoting cultural initiatives.
He also called on South Sudanese youth to take an active role in organizing and preserving cultural practices:
“The youth must take the lead in preserving our cultural heritage and using it to bring unity.”
Appeal to UNESCO and International Partners
His Majesty did not shy away from challenging the international community, particularly UNESCO, to play a more active role in cultural development.
“What is UNESCO doing here in South Sudan? I believe they are here to prepare us to have a good culture to compete in this world.”
A Tradition of Cultural Diplomacy
Though ethnically distinct, the Pojulu and Azande communities share a longstanding relationship rooted in mutual respect, diplomacy, and shared goals for a peaceful South Sudan. The Azande Kingdom, one of the oldest traditional institutions in the country, has long championed inter-community cooperation through cultural diplomacy.
As the Pojulu community revives its cultural traditions, their festival has become a key platform for peacebuilding, reconciliation, and national pride.
Royal Blessing and Cultural Vision
King Atoroba concluded with a royal blessing to all who attended the event:
“May the blessing of the Azande Kingdom be upon all the Pojulu community, and we look forward to hosting you in the future as we continue to celebrate our cultures together every year.”
The 2025 Pojulu Cultural Festival stands as a compelling reminder that investing in culture is investing in peace, and that South Sudan’s unity lies in embracing its diversity.
