The Derik Cultural Festival is set to return for its sixth edition in Juba next week, starting from November 7th to 14th, 2026. Organizers are calling for greater recognition of culture as a tool for peacebuilding and reconciliation in South Sudan. The festival's theme this year is "Advancing Peace Through Culture," a concept that honors the legacy of Derik Uya Alfred, who dedicated his life to cultural development across Sudan and South Sudan.
The festival honors the memory of Derik Uya Alfred, who left behind a celebrated legacy that continues to inspire. According to Mathiang Cirilo, chairperson of the organizing committee, Alfred viewed cultural engagement as a bridge to peace. The committee said Alfred's legacy includes cultural preservation and nation-building, with culture serving as an important instrument for fostering unity and reconciliation.
This year's festival will also honor Professor Peter Adwok Nyaba for his intellectual contributions, particularly in promoting dialogue on governance and national affairs. The organizing committee described Nyaba's concept of a "House of Nationalities" as an important framework for building a peaceful society through continuous dialogue. Nyaba's contributions have been vital in driving continuous dialogue on governance and reforms.
The festival is expected to feature various cultural events and activities at the University of Juba's Main Campus in Atlabara. The events will showcase the rich cultural heritage of South Sudan, with performances, exhibitions, and discussions. The festival aims to bring people together and promote understanding and reconciliation through cultural exchange.
The organizing committee acknowledged the support of its partners, including the University of Juba's School of Arts, Music and Drama, Al Markaz Al-Salam, and Norwegian People's Aid. Other sponsors include Digital Telecommunications, the Center for Strategic and Policy Studies, Zack for Print and Design, the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), Black Lion Medical Center, Fair Pharma, and Million Items.
Registration for any cultural group, drama clubs, and individuals who wish to participate is free. Activities will be broadcast and updated live across the group's official social media platforms. The committee invited members of the public to participate in the week-long festival, which promises to be an exciting and enriching experience.
The Derik Cultural Festival has become an important event in South Sudan's cultural calendar, promoting peace, unity, and cultural exchange. With its focus on "Advancing Peace Through Culture," the festival aims to inspire a new generation of South Sudanese to work towards a more peaceful and harmonious society.
Key points
- The festival's theme this year is "Advancing Peace Through Culture," which reaffirms the committee's commitment to using culture as a tool for peacebuilding and reconciliation.
- The festival will honor Professor Peter Adwok Nyaba for his intellectual contributions to promoting dialogue on governance and national affairs.
- The event is supported by various partners, including the University of Juba, Al Markaz Al-Salam, and Norwegian People's Aid.
