The South Sudanese students were announced overall winners of the International University of East Africa (IUEA) Cultural Gala, held on March 17, 2023.
This year’s IUEA Cultural Gala was held under the theme “The Colors of Diversity.” It brought together 12 African countries, including Uganda, the DR Congo, Rwanda, Nigeria, Burundi, Liberia, Somalia, South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.
According to the IUEA Vice Chancellor, Prof. Emeka Akaezuwa, the aim of the annual cultural gala is to celebrate the diversity of African culture and to promote cultural exchange among the IUEA community.
“Today, only 12 countries are participating. However, we host students from over 43 countries. It is important to give them a platform to remind them of their rich and diverse cultural traditions.” Said Prof. Emeka.
The event showcased a variety of cultural activities, such as traditional dances, food, plays/poems, fashion, and national anthems.
Each country brought its own distinct flavor to the event. From the rhythmic drumming and energetic dances of East Africa to the melodious singing and graceful movements of West Africa, the event was a melting pot of cultures and traditions.
In the play and poem category, participants used their artistic skills to tell stories that reflected their countries’ cultural values and beliefs. The fashion category showcased the participants’ creativity and talent in designing traditional attire, while the national anthems category was a perfect way to showcase each country’s pride and patriotism.
One of the highlights of the cultural gala was the traditional dance competition. The performances were full of energy, with dancers dressed in colorful costumes and showcasing their best moves. The judges, including Sarah Namulondo, Victoria Fox, Idro Taban, and Esther Mwajuma, were impressed with the level of skill and coordination displayed by the dancers and commended the participants for their creativity and enthusiasm.
“With what we have witnessed from the students today, it is safe to say that IUEA is the most diverse university in Uganda.” said one of the judges, Chef Idros Taban.
The judges announced South Sudan as the overall winners, the 2022 IUEA Cultural Gala champions, DR Congo, as first runners up, while Liberia surprised everyone by emerging as second runners up.
Apart from the title award, the winners also walked away with a cow.
“I would like to commend my guild Minister of Culture for this successful event and congratulate the South Sudanese students upon winning this year’s cow.” IUEA guild president, Mubembe Nathan.
You must be logged in to post a comment.