Man pays $77,000, 297 cows to marry bride, beats rival’s $25,000 offer in South Sudan

A dramatic dowry contest in South Sudan has ended with businessman Thon Chol Riak officially marrying Atong Aguto Monyroor after outbidding a rival suitor with an eye-watering offer that included $77,000 in cash, 297 cows and several plots of land.

The lavish wedding ceremony was held on February 1, 2026, following weeks of nationwide attention as details of the competing offers surfaced on social media and local platforms.

South Sudan businessman Thon Chol wins competition

The contest began late December 2025, when two influential families publicly declared their interest in Atong’s hand in marriage, triggering a rare and highly competitive negotiation process rooted in Dinka cultural tradition.

Under the tradition, marriage is regarded as a bond between extended families and clans, with livestock, particularly cattle, symbolising honour, wealth and social standing.

One of the suitors, Mabior Abit Biar, backed by the Awulian community, reportedly tabled an offer consisting of 158 cows, 161 goats, dozens of sheep, two vehicles, a bungalow in town, seven plots of land in Juba, and about $25,000 in cash.

However, the Abang community, representing Thon Chol Riak, eventually clinched the marriage by committing 297 cows, $77,000 in cash, landed property, additional assets, and educational sponsorships for two members of the bride’s family.

Lavish Dinka tradition sparks debate

Speaking during the negotiations, an official involved in the process said:

“The offers were evaluated according to tradition, family standing and long-term commitments.”

The scale of the bride price has since stirred widespread debate across South Sudan and beyond, with some celebrating it as a proud display of cultural heritage, while others questioned the growing financial pressure placed on marriage within the region.

Despite the mixed reactions, the families proceeded with the union, marking the end of one of the most talked-about dowry negotiations in recent times.