South Sudan’s displaced persons say culture can heal trauma
February 6, 2016 (JUBA) – Cultural aspect, although largely ignored in most South Sudanese communities, can still play a key roles in relieving pain, hence promote peace among the young and elderly people traumatised by the 21 months-long conflict.
“The culture activities kind of relieve the trauma within us. Sitting idle would mean more pain, but our coming together means unity and restoration of peace among ourselves and neighboring communities”, he said.
Tharel Gai, a traditional cultural leader, said localising traditional dance brings pride among South Sudanese, reflecting their diversity and unity.
“Since the beginning when God created us in South Sudan, we are one nation, if something happens to us, it is just a political crisis or struggle of power. We youth and citizens of South Sudan cannot influence ourselves in deep problem, even if there is something bad that happens for us, we must settle it normally,” Gai told Sudan Tribune.
Nyuon Bany Reth, a renowned traditional dancer, said he feels proud of being part of culture, which plays important roles in promoting peace.
“When we form this cultural dance, we are doing it to promote peace within the community. Most young people within these camps were much aggressive and the only way to avoid these wrong activities was for us to engage them into traditional cultural dances,” he said.
Nyanhial Gatluak, a teenager at the UN camp in Juba, said she has been taking part in cultural activities ever since the conflict forced her out of school. This, she said, has reduced her chances of experiencing trauma.
“I have been at home for two years without going to school after my father lost his job. But what came into my mind was to join the group to relieve the pain am going through”, she said.
Several people, at UN camp, gathered together to showcase their cultures. Many, however, said the Nyadithar and Bul-Thor dances have relieved them from trauma, despite the hardships that came with the long conflict.
(ST)