Cattle prices have risen dramatically in Awerial as five men line up in a fierce competition to marry the most expensive girl in the area.

Elizabeth Nyalong Ngong, 17, hails from Awerial in South Sudan’s Eastern Lakes State.

One of the five suitors is reportedly leading the race with 500 cows and 3 V8 vehicles.

David Mayom Riak, deputy governor of Eastern Lakes State, told Radio Tamazuj on Tuesday that he is one of the suitors competing for Nyalong’s heart. He said he has offered 250 cows as dowry to marry her.

“I know the family of Nyalong very well because we were neighbors. I promised the family to marry her since she was still young,” he said.

Riak pointed out that many men want to marry Nyalong, but her family has not yet accepted the dowry. He noted that Nyalong is still underage but by the time marriage will be finalized, she will be 18 years old.

“I know she is under age but the problem is that if wait now, she will be taken from me by those who are now competing with me.  But according to our customary law she is considered an adult,” Riak said.

Awan Parpiny, a youth leader in Awerial, said prices of cows have increased at the market in Awerial as men compete to marry the most expensive and beautiful girl in the area.

“What is happening is going to affect our youth because the prices of cows are skyrocketing in the area. The price of one cow has increased from 50, 000 SSP to 150, 000 SSP in the area,” Awan said.

The youth leader criticized South Sudanese families for trading their daughters for cows. “The bride price is too much and this will affect our youth,” he said.

According to the Dinka and Nuer culture, the bride price is typically 20 to 40 cows.