Prince Marona Sako died early Thursday morning in Madebe Payam, marking an end to a life dedicated to strengthening Azande customs and fostering peace among tribes

By Emmanuel Mandella

Ibba County, South Sudan — The Azande Kingdom is in mourning following the death of one of its most revered royal figures, Prince Marona Sako Faustino Roro, who passed away early Thursday morning in Madebe Payam at the age of 74. A towering presence in both stature and influence, Prince Marona served as Paramount Chief of Ibba County and dedicated his life to preserving Azande customs, promoting peace, and championing justice.

The announcement was made by King Atoroba Peni Rikito Gbudue, who described the loss as “a heartbreaking blow not only to the Royal Family but to the entire Azande community and the people of South Sudan.”

“Prince Marona was more than a traditional leader. He was a father to the people, a champion of justice, a farmer at heart, and a relentless advocate for education and tribal harmony,” said King Atoroba. “His passing is a wound to the roots of our kingdom.”

Known for his wisdom and deep sense of justice, Prince Marona mediated countless land disputes and inter-communal tensions, offering guidance to both the young and the elderly. In areas where access to formal courts was limited, his open-air court — often convened under the shade of mango trees in Ibba and Madebe Payam — became a sanctuary of fairness and reconciliation.

“He didn’t just settle disputes — he healed wounds,” said Agnes Micheal, a women’s leader in Ibba. “He made people shake hands and return home as brothers.”

Beyond his role in conflict resolution, Prince Marona was a strong advocate of agriculture as the backbone of Azande society. He led by example, cultivating his own land and encouraging the youth toward self-reliance through farming.

He also placed a high premium on education, particularly for girls, and worked tirelessly to keep children in school. For Prince Marona, education was not just a path to opportunity, but a means of preserving the Azande identity in an evolving world.

“His voice was always calling us to come together — to farm, to learn, to live in peace. We have lost our compass,” said Ziaziako Kubako Emmanuel, a relative of the late prince.

Plans are currently underway for a traditional royal burial in accordance with Azande customs. Mourners from across Western Equatoria State and beyond are expected to converge in Madebe Payam in the coming days to pay their final respects.

In his message to the nation, King Atoroba called upon all “kinsmen, friends of the Azande Kingdom, in-laws, and the general public” to join together in remembrance and unity during this time of grief.

Prince Marona Sako Faustino Roro leaves behind a legacy deeply rooted in wisdom, humility, and service — a legacy that will continue to shape the Azande Kingdom for generations to come.