DINKA TRIBE OF SOUTH SUDAN
3 videos • 119 views • by Mawut Jok The Dinka people (Dinka: Jiɛ̈ɛ̈ŋ) are a Nilotic ethnic group native to South Sudan. Here are some fascinating facts about the Dinka tribe: Geographical Distribution: The Dinka mostly live along the Nile, from Bor to Renk, in the region of Bahr el Ghazal and Upper Nile (which were formerly part of southern Sudan). They also inhabit the Abyei Area of the Ngok Dinka in South Sudan. The Dinka constitute about 40% of South Sudan’s population, making them the largest ethnic tribe in the country. Language and Culture: The Dinka speak a Nilotic language classified within the Eastern Sudanic branch of the Nilo-Saharan languages. They are closely related to the Nuer ethnic group2. Physical Characteristics: Dinka people are noted for their height. Along with the Tutsi of Rwanda, they are the tallest group in Africa. In the mid-20th century, Dinka males had an average height of 182.6 cm (5 ft 11.9 in). However, later measurements showed a decline, possibly due to undernutrition and conflicts. A survey in 1995 found a mean height of 176.4 cm (5 ft 9.4 in) for Dinka men. History and Migration: According to oral traditions, the Dinka originated from the Gezira region in what is now Sudan. They absorbed Nubian vocabulary while living in the southern periphery of the Christian multi-ethnic empire of Alodia. From the 13th century, the Dinka began migrating out of Gezira due to slave raids, conflict, and droughts. Conflict over pastures and cattle raids has occurred between Dinka and Nuer tribes. The Dinka’s religious beliefs and lifestyle have led to conflicts with the Arab Islamic government in Khartoum. During the 21-year civil war, many Dinka, along with non-Dinka southerners, were massacred by government forces. Since the independence of South Sudan, the Dinka have engaged in a civil war with the Nuer and other groups, who accuse them of monopolizing power1. The Dinka people have a rich cultural heritage, and their resilience continues to shape the history of South Sudan.