South Sudan on Wednesday marks its 14th independence anniversary in muted fashion, with no official celebration as the world’s newest nation grapples with economic turmoil and security tensions.
The country’s economy is in crisis, with 92% of the population living below the poverty line and widespread food insecurity. Heavy reliance on oil revenue has left it vulnerable to economic shocks.
“I was informed that there would be no official celebrations due to the ongoing economic situation the country has been facing. So, there are no state-sponsored celebrations,” army spokesman Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang told Radio Tamazuj.
On July 9, 2011, dignitaries and crowds of South Sudanese celebrated independence from Sudan after decades of civil war. But two years later, in December 2013, a devastating conflict erupted when President Salva Kiir accused his former deputy, Riek Machar, of plotting a coup.
A fragile 2018 peace agreement now faces implementation challenges amid economic strain, with First Vice President Riek Machar placed under house arrest in Juba since March due to political tensions.
This is the 11th consecutive year without official Independence Day events. “Individuals may celebrate privately, or in groups if they are in a position to do so,” Lul said.
“We have joined security forces to secure strategic government installations and public areas so that members of the public can go about their celebrations without any security threats or issues,” he added.
The army spokesman urged peaceful observance: “Our message to the public remains the same: Celebrate responsibly. Cooperate with security forces on any matters related to safety and security.”
Citizens Reflect on Independence
As South Sudan commemorated the independence anniversary, a number of citizens expressed mixed feelings — some hopeful, others disillusioned after years of conflict and unmet promises.
“I’m very happy for this Independence Day. We cannot take it for granted,” said Bonga Moses, a resident of Juba. He urged youth to focus on nation-building and agriculture to boost self-sufficiency.
Moses Ayume Edward, another Juba resident, said he lacked “total freedom” but still held hope for elections in 2026. “We hear a lot of promises … but we don’t see the practicality,” he said, citing poor infrastructure and unpaid civil servants.
Another resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, said: “There’s no reason for me to celebrate … but there’s hope only if our government changes.”
Dorothy Drabuga, a civil society activist, called for full implementation of the 2018 peace deal, saying the reality of independence has fallen short. “People thought separation would bring peace. But it’s a different story,” she said.