09/08/2026
HIS MAJESTY NABONGO MAURICE RAPANDO II HOSTS AZANDE KINGDOM DELEGATION FROM SOUTH SUDAN
His Majesty Nabongo Maurice Rapando II has hosted a delegation from the Azande Kingdom of South Sudan on a cultural exchange visit aimed at strengthening ties between the two kingdoms and exploring ways of preserving, documenting and promoting Africa’s rich cultural heritage.
The delegation, led by Prince Mbortini Mark Zaza and Ambassador Simone Makinipare, visited Kakamega County as part of an engagement to learn about the history, traditions, institutions and cultural preservation initiatives of the Wanga Kingdom.
The delegation first paid a courtesy call to the Kakamega County Department of Culture, where officials outlined the County Government’s efforts to safeguard and promote the region’s diverse cultural heritage. The Chief Officer for Gender and Culture highlighted key initiatives, including the establishment of an Art Gallery at Khayega to preserve cultural artefacts and provide a platform for showcasing Kakamega’s heritage.
She also highlighted the significance of the Eshimuli Shrine, where Wanga kings are laid to rest and cultural dialogues are held, as well as initiatives to promote and add value to traditional herbal medicines through improved packaging, documentation and visibility.
The County has further continued to organise cultural festivals as platforms for celebrating and promoting the diverse cultures of Kakamega. In addition, the County is partnering with the National Museums of Kenya to document Wanga culture and preserve records of significant artefacts associated with the kingdom.
Speaking on behalf of the Wanga Mukulu Kingdom, CPSB Chairperson and Secretary General of the Wanga Mukulu, Mr. James Wakungwi Sakwa, took the delegation through the history, traditions, institutions and cultural practices that have shaped the Wanga Kingdom.
Prince Mbortini Mark Zaza said the Azande Kingdom was seeking to restore cultural norms and strengthen cultural ties as part of efforts to address challenges facing African communities. He underscored the need for collaboration in restoring, tracing, documenting and promoting African cultures for the benefit of present and future generations.
The cultural exchange culminated in a visit to the Nabongo Kingdom Palace in Mumias East, where the delegation was received by His Majesty Nabongo Maurice Rapando II.
Welcoming the Azande delegation, Nabongo Maurice Rapando II expressed his willingness to work closely with the Azande Kingdom in reviving, protecting and promoting African culture. He emphasised the importance of kingdoms forging stronger cultural bonds and sharing knowledge and experiences in the preservation of Africa’s heritage.
The visit marked an important cultural bridge between the Azande and Wanga Kingdoms, creating an opportunity for the two institutions to exchange experiences and explore areas of collaboration in cultural documentation, preservation, promotion and intergenerational transmission of African heritage.
At a time when many African communities are confronting the erosion of indigenous knowledge, language, traditions and institutions, such engagements offer an opportunity for African kingdoms to reclaim their place as custodians of history and living heritage.
