Geng Yep

Call for Unity Among Artists of Northern Bahr el Ghazal (Aweil)
By Geng Ateny Geng Atem (aka Geng Yep)
I write this message with deep concern over the continued disunity within our Artists’ Union in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State. It is painful to see how selfish interests and greed have weakened a body that was meant to unite, protect, and uplift musicians.
Across the world, artists grow through unity—not division. When we put personal gain above collective progress, we destroy our own future and the legacy of our music.
I respectfully appeal to H.E. the Governor of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State to consider reviving and guiding the Artists’ Union as part of his work plan. This would be a historic achievement. We remember how, in 2010, Gen. Paul Malong Awan, then Governor, supported artists to organize themselves and successfully form a legitimate union through elections. That leadership set a good example.
Today, the union is divided into factions, with self-proclaimed titles that do not reflect professional music systems. This confusion damages the image of our state. Former Governor Simon Ober Mawutdit tried to resolve this issue, but it remains unfinished.
Artists have powerful voices. When we sing good songs, we promote peace and unity; when we sing bad songs, we damage the image of our state. I therefore call on the Governor to bring artists together, guide them to form one legitimate leadership, and allow both senior and young artists to work as one family.
Let us choose unity over ego, institutions over individuals, and the future over selfishness.

"In tough times, whoever stands by you—
at the very least, always treat them with respect."