Independence Day in South Sudan

July 9, 2013 marked the second year anniversary of South Sudan's independence. It was a real privilege to be here in the country to join in the celebrations with the community. Our friend, Joyce, met us in the morning and we walked over to the football field where the celebrations were held. We managed to snag some of the few chairs at the back and we stayed there for the next 3 hours.

People celebrating as we walked over to the field

The banner at the celebration

Karen and Rachel ready to celebrate

The morning was filled with speeches interspersed with some song and dance by the local tribe that is prevalent, Dinka. We were thrilled that one of Gideon Theological College students was asked to represent the Christian community as he read from the Bible and encouraged us to offer a moment of silence for those who lost their lives in the fight for independence. 

Speech #1

Men dancing

Gabriel (one of the GTC students) speaking

We were some of the lucky ones who got to sit in the shaded area

Part of the parade

More dancing

The government representative for women giving her speech

We heard speeches from a variety of representatives in Melut. We also received a tray of popcorn and cookies. “Aunty Joyce” kept feeding Rachel popcorn (apart from lollipops and candy) and even asked someone to bring extra popcorn especially for Rachel. I think my favourite part of the celebration was hearing the national anthem being sung and seeing friends like Joyce sing it with gusto and their right hand rested on their chest.

Us with "Aunty Joyce"

We couldn’t stay for too long as Rachel was getting restless and even ended up having a 3 hour nap that afternoon. We missed the speech from the Commissioner of Melut and some more song and dance, but I was quite content with all that we were able to be part of. My sister who is in Aweil, South Sudan (with another NGO) was not allowed to go outside at all that day, so I consider myself quite lucky to be able to partake in whatever little we could as a whole family. Since the celebrations were right near to the college, I could even see and hear the crowd as I was washing dishes in the afternoon while Rachel slept.

South Sudan's National Anthem

Oh God

We praise and glorify You

For Your grace on South Sudan,

Land of great abundance

Uphold us united in peace and harmony.

Oh motherland

We rise raising flag with the guiding star

And sing songs of freedom with joy;

For justice, liberty and prosperity

Shall forever more reign.

Oh great patriots

Let us stand up in silence and respect,

Saluting our martyrs whose blood

Cemented our national foundation,

We vow to protect our nation.

Oh God, bless South Sudan.