Uniting Voices: South Sudan’s Multilingual Democracy in the Spotlight ahead of 2024 Elections
Pyramid Hotel & Radisson Blu Hotel, Nimule Street, Hai Malakal, Juba City, South Sudan
By Emmanuel Malual Makuach, Juba, South Sudan
Saturday, 25 November 2023 (PW) — In the lead-up to the highly anticipated 2024 elections, South Sudan is at a linguistic crossroads as it embraces its diverse tapestry of over 60 indigenous languages. As a journalist passionate about highlighting the importance of language and community-based radio broadcasting, I embarked on a captivating journey to delve into the role of languages in South Sudan’s electoral process.
South Sudan, a nation born out of fervent determination and dedication, boasts a rich cultural heritage encapsulated within its linguistic diversity. With each vernacular representing a unique facet of the country’s identity, it becomes increasingly paramount to enhance their role in fostering a fair, inclusive, and democratic electoral system.
Recognising the significance of linguistic inclusion, South Sudan has made remarkable strides to promote language diversity within its electoral process. Efforts have been undertaken to ensure citizens can exercise their democratic rights in a language they understand and connect deeply. The aim is to bridge the communication gap and foster voter engagement nationwide.
Community-based radio broadcasting has emerged as a vital tool in this linguistic revolution. These radio stations, established in various regions across South Sudan, serve as catalysts for democracy, empowering local communities through informative and participatory programming. By broadcasting in indigenous languages, they actively engage citizens and educate them on electoral processes, voter registration, candidates, and their policies, thereby ensuring an informed electorate.
Stepping into one of these community-based radio stations, I was greeted by a bustling hive of activity. The air hummed with voices in multiple languages, each sharing stories and information that would empower South Sudanese citizens to make informed decisions come election day. Radio hosts, listeners, and guests bonded through a shared love for their language and its ability to shape the democratic landscape of their nation.
As I conversed with individuals in different regions, an overwhelming sense of pride emerged from their discussions about the indispensability of their vernacular in the electoral process. Many expressed how hearing information in their native language made them feel heard, understood, and empowered as active contributors to South Sudan’s democracy. It became evident that language was pivotal in their connection to the political proceedings and overall political engagement.
However, challenges persist in fully harnessing the potential of languages and community-based radio broadcasting. Limited resources, infrastructural deficiencies, and the need for further training pose obstacles to widespread implementation. Ensuring equitable access to information and electoral education remains a pressing concern. Nonetheless, the unwavering determination of South Sudan’s citizens and their government’s commitment provide hope for progress in the years to come.
As South Sudan prepares for its upcoming elections, it stands at a significant crossroads. It is a time when the power of language and the accessibility of information converge. The will of every citizen, irrespective of their language or cultural background, must be harnessed and nurtured. Together, South Sudanese citizens strive to build a democratic future where diversity is celebrated, languages are respected, and every voice resonates for a better tomorrow.
“Language Unites: Indigenous Tongues Pave the Path to Peace and Democracy in South Sudan’s Electoral Journey”
As South Sudan eagerly prepares for its upcoming elections in 2024, the influential role of indigenous languages, including those spoken by major tribes such as Dinka, Zande, Chollo, Bari, Nuer, and Arabic in Juba, takes centre stage. These vernacular languages, deeply rooted in the nation’s cultural fabric, have the potential to foster peace, shape constitutions, and now play a crucial role in informing and updating citizens about the electoral process in their local languages.
Throughout history, South Sudan has witnessed the significant participation of various indigenous languages in critical junctures of the nation’s development. During peace negotiations and constitution-making processes, the multilingual landscape has been both a challenge and an opportunity for facilitating meaningful dialogue and inclusivity. The diversified linguistic tapestry, with its diverse worldviews, has contributed to a more comprehensive representation of the nation’s aspirations.
Drawing inspiration from these past endeavours, South Sudan recognises the power of language in strengthening democracy and acknowledging the rights of every citizen. The forthcoming elections present an occasion where indigenous vernacular radio stations can shine as beacons of information and conduits of democratic discourse.
In the heart of South Sudan, vernacular radio stations thrive as vital channels of communication, catering to the diverse linguistic needs of local communities. These stations, broadcasting in the languages of major tribes and communities, are invaluable in informing citizens about the electoral process. By capturing each language group’s nuances, cultural intricacies, and aspirations, these radio stations foster a sense of belonging, awareness, and ownership of the democratic proceedings.
Imagine tuning in to a Dinka language radio station, where passionate discussions ensue about the candidates, their policies, and the transformative power of elections. Picture a Zande radio anchor, their voice resonating through the airwaves, connecting with listeners and imparting knowledge about voter registration and polling stations. Envision a Nuer radio show, engaging listeners in lively debates on the significance of transparency and accountability in the electoral process. Each station, in its distinct tongue, contributes to a vibrant tapestry of democratic discourse.
The Arabic language in Juba often called the lingua franca, is essential in fostering communication and understanding among diverse language groups. It serves as a unifying force, bridging linguistic barriers and forging connections between communities, promoting collaboration and a shared vision of a peaceful electoral journey.
While these vernacular radio stations play a crucial role, challenges persist. Limited resources, technological gaps, and the need for financial support hinder their full potential. Continued investment and support from governmental and non-governmental entities are required to strengthen their infrastructure, expand their reach, and ensure accurate and unbiased information to all citizens.
As the 2024 elections draw closer, South Sudan embarks on a democratic voyage propelled by the power of indigenous languages and vernacular radio broadcasting. It is an opportunity to celebrate the richness of linguistic diversity, recognise the heritage and wisdom embedded in each tongue, and empower citizens to actively participate in shaping the future of their nation.
In this pivotal moment, the synergy between language, democracy, and informed participation converges, heralding a transformative era for South Sudan. Through the collective embrace of indigenous languages, the nation embarks on a journey where every citizen’s voice, culture, and aspirations find expression, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and representative democracy.
The author, Emmanuel Malual Makuach, is a South Sudanese researcher and analyst on the role of social media that triggered conflict in December 2013 and July 2016 in South Sudan and can be reached via his email address: Jamal Karim <malualmakuach77@gmail.com>
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