By Staff Writer
In the heart of Juba’s Mangateen suburb in Central Equatoria state, a powerful scene unfolds as the #Hib Jeran cultural festival fills the streets with vibrant hopes, lively performances, and a shared spirit of togetherness.
#Hib Jeran”- an Arabic phrase meaning “Love your neighbour” has, over recent years, grown into a symbol of unity and resilience for the diverse communities within the settlement site in the locality.
On November 1, this year, Active Citizen South Sudan (ACSS) conducted its annual cultural festival in the Mangateen playground to bring communities together.
This year’s festival themed “Let’s Coexist for a Peaceful South Sudan,” advances the normal tradition, drawing over 3,000 participants to celebrate cultural heritage, bridge differences, and inspire hope for a peaceful, interconnected South Sudan.
“With this festival, we are on a path to embracing one another and working towards the welfare of our great country,” Jok Gabriel shared his optimism in an interview.
The event reinforced messages against division and violence and served as a moving reminder of the strength found in unity.
Speaking at the occasion, Angelina Stephen Ban, Project Officer for the organization, highlighted the power of culture as a connector, bringing together people from different backgrounds to promote peaceful coexistence.
“We normally have the Hib Jeran cultural peace festival at the end of every year to promote peaceful coexistence among different communities. We use it as a platform for sharing our non-violent approaches,” she explained
The festival featured captivating performances from local cultural groups, including the #Lich Cultural Group and the #Koth Ke Dhueeng, a traditional Dinka group, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The central theme of the festival also underscores the message that despite differences, South Sudanese people can unite for a common cause.
As performances dazzled and heartfelt messages echoed during the event then, the initiative also transformed the streets into a joyous tapestry of hopes, and locals accepting each other.
Ms. Ban called on the communities to embrace positive change, noting that such change was essential to achieve complete stability.
“Our message is simple yet profound: let us rise above differences, reject the cycle of violence, and harmful traditions that pull us apart,” she urged.
“Together, we can build a South Sudan rooted in unity, respect, and peace,” Ban concluded.
The initiative was supported by the Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), which plays a significant role in fostering peace and harmony across the country.
Throughout the rendezvous, participants engaged in an array of activities, including dances, dramas, and musical performances that celebrated themes of peace and unity.
Madhol Lew, Mangateen’s local Chief, encouraged all the South Sudanese to embrace harmony and promote intermarriages as a means of fostering peaceful coexistence.
“Most of the communities across the country deserve each other,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of embracing diversity.
“I encourage everyone to live in harmony and promote the culture of intermarriages for peaceful coexistence,” the local chief added.
Infused with the rhythm of traditional music and the warmth of community spirit, the platform illuminated the path toward a more harmonious and inclusive future for all. These included shared experiences and cultural expressions while fostering connections among diverse groups.
The event not only celebrated South Sudan’s rich cultural traditions but also served as a crucial reminder of the strength of unity and understanding in the face of adversity.
With each gathering, the festival reinforces the message that love and understanding can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow, transforming the social fabric of Juba City and beyond through the power of culture.