The Ministry of Culture, Museums and National Heritage in South Sudan has eulogized veteran playwright Joseph Abuk Juma, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 83. In a condolence statement, the ministry described Abuk as a distinguished son of South Sudan and a pillar of the country's national culture. The ministry expressed deep sorrow and shock at his passing, extending heartfelt condolences to his family, relatives, friends, and the cultural fraternity of South Sudan.
Abuk made significant contributions to South Sudan's cultural identity, arts, and heritage throughout his career. He played a crucial role as chairman of the technical committee that oversaw the selection of South Sudan's national anthem in 2010. His leadership helped guide the search for a national identity on the eve of independence. The ministry credited Abuk with promoting and preserving South Sudanese culture, arts, and music, and described him as a mentor who nurtured generations of artists, musicians, and cultural workers.
Abuk was the founder of the South Sudan Theatre Organization, which represented the country on the international stage. One of his notable achievements was translating and adapting William Shakespeare's Cymbeline into Juba Arabic. The play was performed at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London in 2012 by a cast whose members came from different ethnic communities in South Sudan. This achievement showcased Abuk's dedication to promoting South Sudanese culture and arts globally.
Abuk also hosted the Culture and Tradition programme on SSBC, which focused on promoting the country's cultural heritage. Through his work, he advocated for culture as a tool for unity, peace, and national cohesion. The ministry recognized Abuk's legacy, stating that it will continue through the national anthem and the cultural institutions he helped build.
Abuk served during the liberation struggle and continued his public service after independence. His contributions to South Sudan's cultural sector have been recognized as invaluable. The ministry's condolence statement highlighted Abuk's dedication to his work and his impact on the country's cultural landscape.
The South Sudan Theatre Organization, founded by Abuk, played a significant role in promoting the country's arts and culture. Abuk's work on Shakespeare's Cymbeline demonstrated his ability to blend traditional and modern artistic expressions. His translation and adaptation of the play into Juba Arabic helped to introduce South Sudanese audiences to classical works.
The Ministry of Culture, Museums and National Heritage has urged the public to remember Abuk's legacy and continue his work in promoting South Sudan's cultural heritage. Key_point: The ministry described Abuk's death as a major loss to South Sudan's cultural sector. Key_point: Abuk was a veteran playwright, author, and translator who made significant contributions to South Sudan's cultural identity. Key_point: Abuk's legacy will continue through the national anthem and the cultural institutions he helped build.
