JUBA, South Sudan, Nov. 4—In a vivid display of tradition and unity, the families of Solomon Ariik Manyok Lual and Margaret Nakau Festo Kumba celebrated a wedding ceremony today in Juba, blending customs of the Nyarweng Dinka and Azande communities. The event highlighted South Sudan’s diversity and signaled a step toward unity as the country continues to seek reconciliation among its varied ethnic groups.
At the ceremony, Dr. Nakua Festo, the bride’s father, called on South Sudanese people to “denounce cultures of disunity” and expressed gratitude for the community support throughout the marriage process. “Today is the traditional wedding,” he said, “and the next step will be to formalize their union in the church.”
Notable attendees included Rt. Hon. Speaker Jemma Nunu Kumba, mother of the bride, and Angelo Beda, a veteran freedom fighter and politician, who emphasized the importance of unity and peace. Reflecting on the demographic shifts and history of ethnic conflict, Beda noted, “During the British era, the Dinka and Zande were the largest tribes, but the Nuer have since grown significantly through their wartime experiences.” He added, “We Zande will never fight. It is the beginning of a new era.”
Hon. Ajongo, a parliament member representing Bahr el Ghazal, offered advice to Margaret, urging respect for her husband as she joins the Dinka community. He praised Speaker Kumba for her commitment to unity in allowing her daughter’s marriage to take place in Jonglei state.
The union of Solomon and Margaret represents a symbolic step toward reconciliation and solidarity in South Sudan, a nation where peace remains a cherished yet ongoing pursuit.
