Ghines Foundation and UNESCO Release First Comprehensive South Sudan Music Industry Report

On 28 July 2026, the Ghines Foundation and UNESCO, joined by the European Union, AfriYAN and the Central Equatoria State Artists Association, unveiled the Mapping the Music Sector in South Sudan Report in Juba. The document marks the country’s first systematic assessment of its music ecosystem and sketches a roadmap for turning artistic talent into a sustainable economic engine.

The study draws on surveys of 41 music practitioners conducted between September 2025 and March 2026. It exposes the primary barriers that South Sudanese musicians face: the absence of a national music policy, limited access to finance, weak copyright administration and a scarcity of recording and rehearsal facilities. While the nation boasts a rich musical heritage and a growing pool of talent, artists largely rely on live performances for income, with streaming, royalties and licensing generating only a fraction of revenue.

"Talent is abundant, but the professional infrastructure is missing," said Culture Policy and Creative Economy Specialist Lucy Ilado. She stressed the need for a national music policy, a functional copyright system, investment in studios, stronger music education and improved financing options for artists.

Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to South Sudan, Lothar Jaschke, highlighted the importance of reliable data for policy development. He described culture as more than entertainment, framing it as a tool that builds trust, strengthens identity and supports diplomacy.

Central Equatoria State Minister of Information Nyarsuk Patrick acknowledged musicians’ historical role in South Sudan’s liberation struggle and nation‑building. He announced a partnership between the ministry and the Central Equatoria State Artists Association to launch a drug‑free campaign that will use music to promote awareness, peace and the prevention of substance abuse among young people.

UNESCO representative Deborah Awut urged that the report be used as a foundation for action. She noted that reports alone do not transform nations, but they can inspire decisions, attract investment and strengthen partnerships.

The health sector also welcomed the initiative. Central Equatoria State Minister of Health Joyce Bakwa called for partnerships that give artists access to healthcare services and for stronger campaigns against substance abuse in the entertainment industry.

Artists themselves echoed the need for practical implementation. Central Equatoria State Artists Association chairperson Agele Kennedy Joseph, known as AKJ Africa, said musicians produce quality work but lack structures to benefit financially. He called for turning recommendations into action.

Musician and Street Beats Foundation Executive Director Francis Wani, known as Yuppie J, stressed the importance of a long‑term government strategy, the implementation of copyright laws, payment of royalties and support for digital distribution.

The report envisions a future where artists receive royalties for local and international plays, creative businesses attract investment, and the music sector contributes to job creation and economic growth.

Stakeholders have said that the mapping exercise has provided a clearer understanding of the challenges. The next step, they agree, is to move from identifying problems to implementing solutions that can transform South Sudan’s music sector into a sustainable creative economy.

The Mapping the Music Sector in South Sudan Report is now available to policymakers, industry stakeholders and the public. It offers a data‑driven blueprint for building a music industry that can support artists, generate revenue and contribute to national development.

The report’s release marks a significant milestone for South Sudan’s cultural sector and signals a commitment from international partners to support the country’s creative economy.