As a frequent traveler for work, I must admit that I was not particularly thrilled about the flight to Kapoeta. But armed with my trusty playlist featuring Sinach’s Way Maker- Live album and a cup of soothing chamomile tea, I managed to conquer my fears and enjoy the picturesque views of the Eastern Equatoria hills. And of course, a gripping game of block puzzle on my phone provided the perfect distraction.
Mother Nature had her own plans as heavy rain decided to play spoilsport, causing my flight to be postponed by a day. Little did I know, this unexpected delay would end up adding an enchanting twist to my journey. The rain accompanied me throughout my time in Kapoeta, turning the town and the surrounding areas into a refreshing oasis. And oddly enough, it continued to rain in Juba even when I returned, leading me to wonder whether my presence in Kapoeta had brought a touch of good fortune to the region.
When it comes to natural beauty, Kapoeta truly stands out. The town is nestled amidst rolling hills and lush forests, casting a spell of serenity on all who visit. I couldn’t help but marvel at the vast stretches of unoccupied land, offering a sense of freedom and tranquility that I rarely find in bustling cities.
As I immersed myself in the local community, I was privileged to learn about the myths and legends that shape the lives of the Toposa people, the semi-nomadic group inhabiting Kapoeta. These fierce and independent warriors have a rich culture that deeply resonated with me. It was a poignant reminder of the remarkable similarities we share as Nilotic people and the sheer beauty of our diversity.
The vibrant beaded necklaces adorning the women’s necks and the colorful, lively skater skirts they wore created a captivating spectacle. I was even tempted to get one myself, but alas, time constraints dashed my hopes of having a tailor make me a custom skirt. Nonetheless, I relished the comfort and warmth of Kuleu Hotel Resort, my home away from home during my stay in Kapoeta. It provided much-needed respite in a cozy setting reminiscent of a blissful holiday.
The proximity of Kapoeta to the Kenyan border became evident as “probox” vehicles, shuttling between the two countries, dotted the town’s streets. Thankfully, my knowledge of Kiswahili came in handy, allowing me to effortlessly navigate the bustling market and communicate with the South Sudanese hotel staff who were surprisingly more fluent in Kiswahili than in Juba Arabic.
The culinary delights in Kapoeta were a revelation. I savored mouthwatering Sukuma wiki, a dish that is a rarity in Juba. The kales were cooked to perfection, retaining their vibrant green color and delightful crunch. It was a welcomed change from the overcooked versions I had grown accustomed to. The local cuisine revolved heavily around beef, which served as both a main dish and a side dish, tempting my resolve to refrain from consuming red meat. It was a true test of willpower!
During one of my journeys to Kapoeta South, I marveled at the sense of community and belonging that permeated the air. Along the way, I encountered women and girls traveling between Kapoeta North and Kapoeta South, carrying their produce and intricate beadwork to sell as a means of livelihood. This reminded me of the incredible strength and resilience of women, often overlooked and underappreciated. I couldn’t help but draw a parallel to the Woman King and the powerful influence she wields.
I couldn’t resist bringing home a small stool as a memento of my time in Kapoeta. These stools, used by men during their journeys for meetings and moments of rest, symbolize the importance of cattle in the local culture. Speaking of which, I also acquired a metallic bangle believed to possess protective powers. My love for African artifacts and jewelry continues to grow, to a point where opening my own museum doesn’t seem like an outlandish dream.
In the end, my journey to Kapoeta was an unforgettable experience that allowed me to immerse myself in the local culture, beliefs, and myths. I met remarkable individuals, tasted delicious food, and discovered the hidden beauty of this off-the-beaten-path destination. If you’re seeking a unique travel experience like no other, I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on your own adventure in Kapoeta. Prepare to be astonished and awed by all that awaits you in this hidden gem of South Sudan.