Juba is the capital and largest city of South Sudan. The city is situated on the White Nile and also serves as the capital of the Central Equatoria State. It is the world’s newest growing capital city. English and Arabic is commonly spoken in Juba and some pockets of Swahili.
It was established in 1920–21 by the Church Missionary Society (CMS) in a small Bari village, also called Juba. It is a commercial center for agricultural products produced in the surrounding area. It is also a highway hub, with roads radiating into Uganda, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It has an international airport, several banks’ branches and many three- and four-star hotels.
The name ‘Juba’ came from dances in Africa (where it was called Giouba) and Haiti (known as Djouba). Another name for the dance is Hambone. This name, which also has origins in slavery, supposedly originated from “hand-bone,” the hard part of the hand that makes the most sound
So instead of using drums, the enslaved people used their bodies to make music to accompany their singing and dancing. This American musical tradition became known as “patting Juba,” and it was the main accompaniment to the American folk dance known as Juba dance.
Being the world newest capital city have come with a very rapid growth in every sector that adds to the aesthetic value of the city through architecture and cultural/traditional significance such as; the University of Juba, Nyakuron Cultural Center, John Garang Museum, Heroes, Freedom Square, Juba Football Stadium, Juba Basketball Stadium, State House and government ministries, among others. These are among the many sites to visit, see and experience while taking your vacation in Juba.
It is interesting to note that South Sudan has more than 64 tribes and each has an amazing culture you will not want to miss such as the traditional dances for each season and occasion such as marriages, harvesting, and other cultural events, traditional cooking styles and dishes, cattle keeping within cattle camps commonly known locally as Kraals, traditional marriages, game fishing along the many rivers including the most famous River Nile among many more.
You must not miss the best scenic beauty of South Sudan national parks while on this tour. Bandingilo National Park has recorded many species of wild animals and wildlife migration. Nimule National Park is recommended for those who want a one-day tour. It is located about 122 miles South West of Juba City bordering northern Uganda.