The Children of The Sudd

Abstract

The Children of the Sudd is a poetic performance that describe the nature and importance of the Sudd Wetlands of South Sudan and its coexistence with its indigenous communities for thousands of years. It employs scientific findings as well as interview records to tell the stories of the Sudd; past, present and future. Drawing from historical archives, published research, and oral traditions, it exposes the Sudd’s duality as both protector and threat, through the stories of the indigenous peoples of the Sudd. The work translates scientific findings and research into evocative stories, revealing how climate disruptions erode traditional livelihoods while exacerbating political fragility. The performance also highlights indigenous spiritual ties to the land and advocates for inclusive climate solutions. Aligning with the sub-theme Climate Change and the Arts, it hopes to translate scientific research into poetic performance; on an area which, due to conflict and instability, is often understudied. The Children of the Sudd communicates the reality of climate change in South Sudan to those who are unable to access published academic research themselves