The Shilluk tribe is different from most other tribes in South Sudan because they are ruled under a hereditary kingdom. Their leader, called the Reth, is highly respected, and his decisions are always final.
The Shilluk community is large and is ranked as the third-largest ethnic group in South Sudan, after the Azande and the Dinka. They are neighbors to the Nuer, among other tribes.
In addition, the Shilluk are the main Luo Nilotic group that settled in the Northern Upper Nile State and near the Sobat Rivers hundreds of years ago. They mainly practice agriculture and animal rearing, which has improved their way of life.
During the colonial era, many Shilluk people converted to Christianity because they believed in the mighty Creator, God, who is in heaven. However, they still upheld their culture, gave full honor to their Reth, and continued speaking their Eastern Sudanic language.
Problems started when Nuer leader Dr. Riek Machar, along with Dr. Lam Akol from the Shilluk tribe, split from the SPLA. This encouraged other people to follow them, leading to conflicts.
The Dinka and other ethnic groups occupied most of their land after signing the Fashoda Agreement with the Sudanese government.
However, the Shilluk later rose and made history by forming the largest opposition party. This led to a lot of violence as they fought for their rights and land, blaming the Dinka for not listening to their concerns.
Many attempts were made to disarm the Shilluk, but they failed. Unfortunately, they are now suffering as victims of the ongoing conflicts between the Dinka and Nuer forces.
Many Shilluk people have lost their lives. For example, in 2015, rebels targeted the Shilluk community because of their support for the opposition. Attacks continued, even targeting innocent civilians.
The rebels looted their belongings, burned their shelters, and caused great suffering within the community.
There is still hope for the Shilluk tribe. In 2018, they began returning to their homeland with the help of the UN. The UN has supported efforts to manage conflicts and has promised veterinary support to herders in the community.
