South Sudan’s 3rd Mundari Cultural Festival Set for January 2026

By Denilson Deneki

The third edition of the Mundari Cultural Festival, one of South Sudan’s most anticipated cultural events, is officially scheduled to take place from January 16th to 18th, 2026. The festival aims to bring together communities from across the country for three days of cultural celebration, storytelling, and national unity. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Mundari Culture to Promote Peaceful Coexistence in South Sudan,” underscores a strong commitment to fostering harmony through cultural expression.

During a recent press conference, Malok Majak Malok, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Culture, Museums, and National Heritage, announced the festival dates and reaffirmed government support. He highlighted that cultural festivals in South Sudan, including those in Pojulu, Wau, and Torit, have played a vital role in strengthening unity and intercultural dialogue. Malok called on the Mundari community, both locally and in the diaspora, to take pride in their heritage and use the festival as a platform to promote peace, respect, and social cohesion.

Bush Buse, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, emphasized that the festival will showcase the vibrant traditions and deep-rooted heritage of the Mundari people, renowned for their pastoral lifestyle, cultural attire, wrestling, cattle-camp rituals, and rhythmic dances.

“This year’s festival will be unique,” Buse said. “It will bring together all ten payams of Terekeka to celebrate the traditions of the Mundari people.”

Throughout the three-day event, thousands of visitors are expected to enjoy live performances, cultural exhibitions, traditional games, poetry, community dialogues, and displays highlighting the beauty and values of the Mundari identity. Buse invited visitors from the nine other states, the three administrative areas, and beyond to experience the rich culture of the Mundari people.

Terekeka County Commissioner, Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Loku, confirmed the county’s readiness to host the event amid improved peace in the region.

“Terekeka County is now peaceful, unlike before. We are prepared to host this historic festival and welcome everyone to join us,” he stated.

The festival will also feature peace building sessions, youth empowerment activities, and discussions among cultural leaders, women’s groups, and youth associations aimed at strengthening community cohesion. Organizers emphasized that such festivals serve as vital platforms for promoting mutual respect, reducing tensions, and celebrating South Sudan’s diverse cultural fabric.

According to the committee, this year’s edition will focus heavily on unity, dialogue, and the role of culture in bridging divides. “The Mundari Cultural Festival is more than entertainment; it is a space for communities to come together, celebrate their identity, and reaffirm the values of peace and unity that our nation needs,” the committee stated.

Additional attractions will include artisan exhibitions, traditional cuisines, storytelling tents, and performances by cultural troupes from neighboring regions. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the Mundari pastoral lifestyle, the central role of cattle in their society, and the significance of their traditional rituals passed down through generations.

Over the years, the Mundari Cultural Festival has grown into a major national event, attracting cultural enthusiasts, researchers, community leaders, and visitors from across South Sudan and beyond. Organizers are optimistic that the 2026 edition will be the most extensive and inclusive yet.