What is aweil?

Aweil is a city in the Northern Bahr el Ghazal state of South Sudan. It is located approximately 720 kilometers northwest of the capital city, Juba. Aweil is the second largest city in Northern Bahr el Ghazal state, after its state capital, Aweil West. The city has a population of about 164,000 people (as of 2020) and is home to numerous ethnic communities, including Dinka, Jur, Nuer, and Luo.

Agriculture is the main economic activity in Aweil, with the majority of the population relying on subsistence farming. The city is also a major center for livestock trade and serves as a transit point for livestock heading to neighboring Sudan and Ethiopia. Aweil is known for its beautiful dance and music performances, and some of the most famous South Sudanese musicians, such as Dynamq, hail from Aweil.

In recent years, Aweil has faced significant challenges due to the ongoing conflict in South Sudan. The city has been subject to repeated attacks and displacement of the population, leading to food shortages and economic decline. However, efforts are being made to rebuild the city and restore a sense of normalcy to the lives of its residents.