Admin
Angok Malik Akok
One of the most beautiful aspects of the Derik Festival is that it provides a great opportunity for those who were not aware of the festival’s importance to understand it.
It also honors the forgotten national figures who contributed to the promotion of culture, heritage, and the identity of the people of South Sudan.
Additionally, it has opened national libraries to showcase books by local authors, along with theatrical performances and films produced by the youth of South Sudan.
The Derik Festival means sowing the seeds of knowledge and creativity, motivating young people to actively participate in the journey of cultural and literary work.
In every edition, new works emerge, whether literary, films, or new book releases.
This encourages future generations to strive and work to showcase their hidden artistic, cultural, and creative talents.
The Derik Festival lacks significant financial support, which means that in the current edition, some elements were missed due to the absence of financial backing.
We only wish to remind you of the third edition, which attracted a large group from Western Bahr el Ghazal State.
The Wau Cultural Center, one of the centers founded by Mr. Derik Alfred, did not participate in this edition, likely due to the difficult economic conditions the country is facing, which have also affected the festival organizers.
This raises the question of why the Derik Festival lacks the funds needed to extend or celebrate it in conjunction with other states, especially when it has garnered widespread public acceptance in the country.In my opinion, this edition took place while the country is facing a severe economic crisis, which led to a decline in attendance due to the lack of transportation and a significant increase in prices.
Despite these tough conditions, the fans of the Derik Cultural Festival did not refrain from attending and participating in all mobile activities.
They participated beautifully, recognizing the importance of the festival despite the challenges they faced.
Additionally, the Derik Festival committee has relied on themselves and a few culturally and artistically interested businessmen, who are very few—less than five.
This poses a challenge for the committee to secure enough funds to achieve more cultural activities and events during the festival.So, what is the solution?I
suggest that the head of the Derik Cultural Festival prepares for the festival early with the participation of the public in its organization.
Since there is no other cultural event in the country, this is the one eagerly awaited.
It has become a comprehensive cultural gathering where all segments of society participate, alongside the respected figure of Derik, who holds a special place in the hearts of the public.
However, despite the public’s admiration, why does the festival not receive financial support from all segments of society and the general public?
Do people realize that this festival is organized through the efforts of the committee members, relying on social and personal connections to attract support?
I believe many fans of the Derik Festival are unaware of this, and if they knew, they could contribute, even a little, to ensure its continuation in spreading awareness and culture in the country.We ask colleagues, friends, and those interested in the festival to announce the official opening of Derik Cultural Festival membership at the conclusion of today’s festival.
This will allow everyone to participate in exploring ways to support the festival and collaborate in realizing the vision of Mr. Derik Alfred, who is loved by everyone, even those who have never met him. Through his unforgettable cultural and artistic festivals, everyone has come to know Derik, a man beloved for his remarkable and unforgettable contributions.
Arop
