[OPINION] – Kakuwa Must Rise Beyond Political Divides

The Kakuwa people, spread across South Sudan, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, have always represented resilience, unity and cultural richness. My upbringing in Mongo, Yei and Ombasi offered me a front row seat to the traditions, values  and social bonds that define our community.

The expression “Kakuwa Salia Musala” symbolises the deep ties that bind our three nations and reminds us of our shared identity.

Historically, the Kakuwa community thrived on strong social values of hard work, generosity, love and deep reverence for God, summed up in the principle of “Ngun Kata.” These values gave us a sense of identity, belonging and purpose.

As a proud member of the Kakuwa tribe, I honour our traditions and the familial bonds that connect us. Yet today, we stand at a crossroads, grappling with moral, social and political challenges that threaten to unravel our unity and wellbeing.

Since the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in 2005, our cohesion has weakened. Divisions and internal factions have emerged, turning spaces once filled with cooperation into battlegrounds of political and ideological conflict. This disunity distracts us from collective progress and undermines the welfare of ordinary Kakuwa citizens.

The wounds of the South Sudanese Civil War are still raw, especially in places like Yei, Morobo and Lainya. Our communities have faced displacement, rights violations, economic collapse and a crumbling health care system. The threat to our human security is real, made worse by rampant corruption and the breakdown of traditional protections.

It is time to recognise that relying solely on traditional leadership, particularly our chiefs, is no longer enough. Many are under political pressure and can no longer effectively protect or guide us. What we need now is a new form of leadership, one that encourages openness, inclusivity and resilience.

Reviving the Kakuwa community will require unity and collective action. We must reconnect and rebuild hope by embracing shared stories and inclusive practices. Our future lies in empowering the next generation by providing the tools, knowledge and support they need to grow and thrive.

I therefore call on all Kakuwa people to be intentional in choosing our leaders. The qualities we must look for include:

+ Encouraging Open Communication: Leaders who build trust and dialogue within our community.

+ Promoting Inclusivity and Diversity: Those who make everyone feel valued, regardless of background.

+ Providing Community Support: Leaders who focus on serving those in need—through support centres, aid and outreach.

+ Rebuilding Social Bonds: Leaders who organise communal events, meals, and forums to combat isolation and disconnection.

+ Committing to Action: Those who lead real projects to revitalise public spaces and support collective wellbeing.

+ Empowering the Youth: Leaders who offer education, mentorship and opportunities for young people to succeed.

If we commit to these principles, we can start to rebuild what has been lost. We can rediscover the strength of our community and shape a better future for all Kakuwa people.

Let us rise together, guided by the enduring spirit of “Kakuwa Salia Musala.”

Boboya James Edimond is a son of the Kakuwa community and a scholar in international development management, governance and social policy.

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