The Azande Kingdom has launched a door-to-door fundraising in Yambio, Western Equatoria State, to support the upcoming 3rd anniversary celebration on 9 February.
The initiative aims to collect contributions to fund logistics, tents, sound systems, and accommodation.
Atoroba Peni Rikito Gbudue is the current King of the Azande Kingdom in South Sudan. He was crowned on February 9, 2022, after the kingdom was restored following the death of his great-grandfather, King Gbudwe, in 1905.
Speaking to journalists at the Royal Palace on Tuesday, the Anniversary Committee chairman, Sabir Gbuku, said the team is working under the Azande Kingdom to ensure success.
“We are collecting SSP3,000 per household to cover essential needs like hiring tents, sound systems, and providing accommodation. We have assigned paramount chiefs, including in Ezo, Tambura, Maridi, and Eastern counties, to coordinate the collections,” Gbuku explained.
He noted that the committee understands the challenges in the conflict-affected areas like Tambura County.
“We pray for peace in those areas and hope they will participate once conditions improve. Chiefs in other counties are forming committees to assist in the collection efforts,” he said.
Gbuku expressed gratitude to all the 64 communities residing within the Azande Kingdom for their support.
“We thank communities like the Lotuko and the Bari for standing with us. This celebration is not only for the Azande but for everyone living under the kingdom’s umbrella,” he said.
The chairman of the mobilization team, Morris Bida, emphasized that the fundraising is solely for the anniversary celebration and not for political purposes.
“This collection is to ensure the celebration goes well. We need everyone’s support. It is important that we avoid tribal divisions and recognize that this event is for the entire community. Anyone approached for contributions should respond positively and avoid saying hurtful words,” Bida urged.
He added that each household is requested to contribute SSP3,000.
“We should all listen to our leaders and avoid saying, ‘I’m not Azande’. This is not about politics; it is about unity and celebrating together as one community.”
Committee member Rose Angelo Machin appealed to all community members to contribute generously, emphasizing the importance of unity.
“We will collect money from all corners of Yambio to make this celebration a success. I encourage all communities to participate because we are one people. There is no segregation here,” she said.
She also revealed that part of the funds would be used to build a structure in honor of the Azande Royal Family.
“We aim to build something memorable for the Azande Kingdom, a place that will be cherished by future generations.”
The 3rd Anniversary Celebration is expected to attract people from across the region, promoting unity and cultural pride.