The Tribes of South Sudan

Juba Arabic: Our Voice, Our Identity

Broadcasting the rich cultural heritage of South Sudan and the Equatoria region. Celebrating Juba Arabic as the language that unites our community across the globe

Our Journey to Independence

A brief historical background of South Sudan's path to sovereignty
1956

Sudan Independence

Sudan becomes a sovereign state on January 1st, 1956

South Sudan Liberation Movement

Joseph Lagu from Equatoria leads guerrilla army with main objective of secession
1969
1972

Addis Ababa Agreement

Peace agreement signed ending the first civil war

Second Civil War

SPLA/M led by Dr. John Garang begins 22-year struggle
1983
2005

Comprehensive Peace Agreement

Historic peace accord ending 22 years of conflict and an estimated two million deaths

Independence

98.83% of South Sudanese vote for independence in historic referendum
2011

Juba Arabic as an Identity

Language is a crucial means of identification and association. Defending language is defending culture.

Born to Resist

Juba Arabic emerged as a mushroom language born to resist Arabization and defend our unique cultural identity.

Unity Through Language

A crucial means of identification bringing together 64 ethnic groups across Greater Equatoria, Bahr el Ghazal, and Upper Nile.

Everyday Life

The common language in markets, transport, offices, marriages, churches - connecting all aspects of South Sudanese lif

Cultural Expression

The language of South Sudanese music and artistic expression, both at home and in diaspora communities worldwide.

64

Ethnic Groups

36

Equatoria Tribes

148

Years of Equatoria

Global

Diaspora Reach

The Trinity of Greater Equatoria

Three distinct regions united by culture, language, and heritage.

Eastern Equatoria

The Gold of the Nation
Area: 73,472 km²
Bigger than Burundi with 11 million people

Central Equatoria

The Motherland
Area: 43,033 km²
Home to Juba, the capital city

Western Equatoria

The Diamond of the Nation
Area: 79,343 km²
Rich in natural resources and biodiversity

Tribes of Equatoria

A rich tapestry of ethnic diversity representing 55% of South Sudan's ethnic groups, all united through Juba Arabic as a common language.
Acholi
Avokaya
Baka
Bari
Kakwa
Kuku
Lango
Keliko
Lugbwara
Lokoya
Narim
Lopit
Lulubo
Madi
Moru
Makaraka
Mundari
Nyangbwara
Otuho
Pojulu
Tenet
Toposa
Azande
Avukaya
Mundu
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