By Hou Akot Hou
The Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Sports in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State (NBGs) has established a cultural committee aimed at revitalising and promoting local traditions across the state.
The move is intended to safeguard indigenous cultural practices amid growing concerns over the influence of foreign customs among the youth.
Speaking to the media, the director general of the ministry, Peter Aguer Achier, said the initiative seeks to address the gradual erosion of cultural norms and values.
He noted that many young people have increasingly adopted cultural expressions—such as music, dance styles, and dress codes from other East African countries—raising fears about the loss of local identity.
According to Achier, the committee will consist of representatives drawn from the state’s five counties, with each county contributing two members.
Additional representatives will come from municipal councils, bringing the total number of committee members to twelve.
The team will be tasked with monitoring cultural activities during festivals and major public events, ensuring they align with local traditions and societal norms.
“Our Ministry has observed emerging practices that are being imported into our communities,” Achier said. “For instance, I attended a picnic and found young people engaging in dance styles from other countries. While cultural exchange is inevitable, we must prioritise and preserve our own heritage.”
He emphasised that the committee will work at grassroots levels, including payams, counties, and municipalities, to guide and influence youth engagement in cultural activities.
Local concerts and events will also be promoted as platforms to encourage traditional music, dance, and artistic expression.
Achier further expressed concern over the rise of informal youth clubs that, according to him, promote practices inconsistent with local cultural values.
He warned that such trends could undermine community identity if left unchecked.
“Some young people are joining clubs that do not reflect our traditions,” he said. “Through this committee, we aim to reverse that trend and promote activities that strengthen our cultural foundation.”
The Director General added that the initiative will also support artists and cultural groups by encouraging content that fosters unity, peace, and social cohesion, rather than messages that could divide communities.
The formation of the cultural committee marks a renewed effort by the state government to preserve heritage while guiding younger generations toward a deeper appreciation of their cultural roots.