Governor Madut awards Abyei singer Aluel Manyiel eight bulls

AWEIL – Northern Bahr el Ghazal State Governor Charles Madut Akol on Monday hosted a thanksgiving ceremony at the State Secretariat in Aweil to honour Abyei-born singer Aluel Manyiel Rou, awarding her eight bulls and two plots of land in recognition of her contribution to promoting unity through music.

The event drew local leaders, politicians, and members of the public, with speakers praising the artist for elevating the image of the Aweil community through songs that emphasise love and social cohesion.

Among the key speakers was Dr Dhieu Mathok Diing, a prominent Aweil politician and former Minister of Investment, who commended Aluel for using her platform to foster unity rather than division. He contrasted her work with that of some artists in the region accused of promoting hate through their music.

“Those artists who spread hate speech and divide the nation have no place for recognition, while those who use music to promote unity deserve to be applauded, such as you, Aluel,” Mathok said.

He noted that the awards—including a bull named “Mading”—symbolise the appreciation of the Aweil community and would be formally handed over to the singer in Abyei in the presence of her family. He added that the state government had committed to transporting livestock to Abyei.

Mathok also praised the management of MBC Hotel for hosting the singer during her stay, describing the gesture as part of the broader spirit of hospitality and cooperation associated with the Aweil community.

Governor Madut, speaking at the ceremony, welcomed the musician and encouraged her to consider Aweil a second home. He said her music resonates with many people and sets her apart from artists who engage in indirect attacks or divisive messaging.

“You are welcome to stay in Aweil anytime. We do not segregate here,” the governor said. “Your song moves many people and stands out from those that promote hate.”

He further warned that individuals who use social media or music platforms to spread hate speech could face legal consequences, including libel charges.

As she concluded her visit to Aweil, Aluel expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed her commitment to producing music that highlights unity and positive cultural values. She said she would continue to promote the spirit of cooperation she witnessed in Aweil to a wider audience.

“I am happy for the spirit of unity and cooperation you show,” she said. “I will continue to produce songs that help others understand the importance of how you treat people.”

The ceremony marks a rare cross-regional cultural recognition, underscoring the role of music in promoting peace and social harmony in South Sudan.