Two men from Twic East and Bor counties are engaged in a remarkable competition for the hand of 18-year-old Athiak Dau Riak, a young lady from the Nook clan of Pakeer .
The negotiations surrounding her marriage have exceeded customary boundaries, sparking discussions throughout Greater Bor on social media inside and outside South Sudan.
While Athiak’s cousin Deng Chol Deng mentioned that the family has not yet made an official statement regarding the marriage process and has refrained from involving social media, details circulating online reveal the substantial bids made by the suitors. Marial Garang Jill from the Koc clan has pledged 105 head of cattle and 65 million SSP, while Chol Marol Deng from the Awulian clan has offered 110 head of cattle and 110 million SSP.
This competition has captured the interest of many due to the significant sums involved, surpassing the customary bride price limit of 30 head of cattle in Dinka Bor traditions. Kuol Bol Ayom, a cultural expert, highlighted the deep-rooted customs behind such marriage contests, emphasizing that they symbolize not only the bride’s qualities but also the families’ prestige and integrity.
These competitions, based on love and wealth, promote unity and peaceful coexistence among communities, transcending societal divisions.
The tradition of competing for a bride reflects her beauty, character, and family reputation, embodying values highly esteemed in future generations.
The practice of paying bride price, a cornerstone of Dinka culture, strengthens family and communal bonds while preserving heritage and way of life.
As negotiations unfold, this event underscores the enduring customs and the significance of matrimonial alliances within the community, destined to be remembered in Jonglei State’s cultural history for years to come.
The Athiak Dau wedding has the potential to either heal or further divide the people of Twic East and Bor, who have had political differences since the liberation struggle.
Despite sharing the same language, these two communities in Jonglei have a lack of trust among themselves. The question remains whether the Athiak marriage will it serve as a unifying force or exacerbate existing divisions. It is crucial for both communities to come together and find common ground in order to move forward and foster peace and unity.
Only time will tell the impact of this significant event on the relationship between the people of Twic East and Bor county ,
