Kiir directs culture minister to modernize national museums, preserve heritage

2026-03-26 - 17:04

President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Thursday instructed the Ministry of Culture, Museums and Heritage to modernize national museums, establish archives, and safeguard South Sudan’s cultural heritage. The directives came during a briefing by Minister Sarah Nyanath Elijiah Yong, who outlined the government’s plan to preserve the country’s history, including its struggle for independence and national achievements. According to the Official Page of the Office of the President, President Kiir said many artifacts, cultural sites, and burial grounds have been altered, renamed, or removed over time. He directed the Minister to identify materials and heritage assets that have been taken or lost and to take steps toward their recovery. During the briefing, Minister Nyanath presented her priorities for the Ministry. She said her focus includes establishing national museums, archives, and monuments to document South Sudan’s history, strengthen institutional capacity, and preserve national identity for future generations. She also explained the need to give formal recognition to key national dates such as May 16 and May 19, which currently lack a structured framework. The Minister further addressed the issue of cultural artifacts held outside the country, including collections in Sudan, Kenya, and the United Kingdom, and said her Ministry will pursue their return through international channels. She also outlined plans to use South Sudanese culture to promote economic development while reinforcing peace and national unity. President Kiir urged the Ministry to work closely with relevant institutions and international partners to ensure that historical assets are preserved, restored, and properly recognized. He said culture and heritage are national treasures that must be protected for future generations. The meeting sets the stage for the Ministry’s long-term work on national heritage, museums, archives, and monuments, while reinforcing the role of culture in unity and nation-building.