A Journey of Ideas

Over a forty-year career, Dr Francis Mading Deng, South Sudan’s most eminent statesman, diplomat and academic, became one of Africa’s most prolific writers. His catalogue includes books (fiction and non-fiction), journal articles, policy documents, reports, opinion pieces, think tank analysis, and more. This collection of his writings will lead the reader through his early years as a young scholar, (and first person from Southern Sudan to gain a PhD), recording Dinka traditions through songs and folktales, interviews with elder Chiefs, and the customary laws of his indigenous society. His writing did not slow down during the many roles played, which includeed academic, politician, and peace negotiator for the conflicts in Sudan and South Sudan. He also served the UN as representative of the Secreatary-General and advisor in mandates on displacement and genocide prevention. This Is In addition to his life-long commitment to the resolution of the crisis in the contested territory of Abyei – his homeland. Compelling and challenging, sometimes contentious, these writings trace the extraordinary career of one of Africa’s greatest intellects and his rich and nuanced explorations of history, politics, conflict resolution, humanitarianism, sovereignty, war, peace and culture.