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JUBA, South Sudan – Veteran South Sudanese singer Viviana Nyachan, a celebrated cultural icon known for her powerful voice and influence on the country’s music industry, has died.

Family sources say she passed away on Tuesday evening in Juba.

Nyachan, who hailed from the Shilluk community, was widely respected for her role in promoting South Sudanese culture through music. Over the years, she built a strong legacy by singing in multiple local languages, while remaining deeply rooted in her native Chollo language.

She rose to prominence in the early 1990s and released her first album in 2000, becoming one of the first solo South Sudanese female artists to produce and distribute music both locally and internationally.

Her music often carried strong social messages. One of her most popular songs, “Hakuma Ta Mara,” advocated for women’s participation in political leadership and decision-making following South Sudan’s independence in 2011.

Nyachan also used her platform to call for peace and humanity during times of conflict. In past interviews, she spoke about the pain of war and its impact on her life and art, saying the suffering in South Sudan deeply affected her ability to create music.

Despite these challenges, she remained committed to preserving traditional music and promoting cultural identity.

Her contribution to arts and culture was formally recognized during the 5th Derik Cultural Festival held at the University of Juba in November 2025, where she was honored for her impact on the country’s music scene.

Nyachan’s death marks the loss of one of South Sudan’s most influential musical voices.

Eye Radio will continue to provide updates on funeral arrangements and tributes.