The 3rd Mundari Cultural Festival, one of South Sudan’s most vibrant and unifying cultural events, has officially been set for January 16th to 18th, 2026.
The announcement was made during a press briefing in Juba, confirming the return of a festival widely celebrated for preserving heritage and strengthening community bonds.
This year’s edition will run under the theme “Celebrating Mundari Culture to Promote Peaceful Coexistence in South Sudan,” a message organizers say reflects the festival’s commitment to healing divisions and championing unity through cultural expression.
Malok Majak Malok, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Culture, Museums and National Heritage, said the government remains fully behind the event, noting that cultural gatherings play a vital role in peacebuilding across the country.
He highlighted cultural festivals in Pojulu, Wau, and Torit as examples of how traditional celebrations continue to bring communities together.
“We encourage the Mundari community, at home and abroad, to take pride in this cultural heritage and use the festival as a platform for peace, respect, and social cohesion,” Malok said.
Festival organizing committee chairperson Bush Buse emphasized that this year’s edition will showcase the diversity of the Mundari people, known for their pastoral traditions, cattle-camp rituals, wrestling, distinctive attire, and rhythmic dances.
“This year’s festival will be unique. It will bring together all ten payams of Terekeka to showcase the traditions of the Mundari people,” he said.
Thousands of visitors are expected over the three-day celebration, which will feature live performances, cultural exhibitions, traditional games, poetry recitals, storytelling, and community dialogues.
Organizers say the event will offer a full cultural immersion into the Mundari way of life from their pastoral heritage to the central significance of cattle in their identity.
Terekeka County Commissioner Dr. Emmanuel Loku affirmed the county’s readiness to host the event, describing the area as stable and prepared to welcome visitors.
“Terekeka County is now peaceful, unlike before. We are ready to host this historical festival and welcome everyone to join us,” he said.
Beyond entertainment, the festival will incorporate peacebuilding sessions, youth engagement programs, and discussions led by cultural leaders, women’s groups, and youth associations.
These forums aim to strengthen community cohesion and highlight the role of culture in reducing tensions and promoting understanding among South Sudan’s diverse communities.
Organizers say the 2026 edition places special emphasis on unity, dialogue, and cultural pride.
“The Mundari Cultural Festival is more than entertainment it is a space for communities to come together, celebrate who they are, and reaffirm the values of peace and togetherness that our nation needs,” the committee noted.
Additional attractions will include artisan markets, traditional cuisine stalls, storytelling tents, and performances by cultural troupes from neighboring regions.
Over the years, the Mundari Festival has grown into a major national cultural attraction, drawing researchers, artists, cultural enthusiasts, and community elders from across South Sudan and the region.
With preparations underway, organizers are hopeful that the 2026 edition will be the most inclusive and impactful yet celebrating culture while calling the nation toward unity.
