(JUBA) – South Sudan quietly marked the 14th anniversary of its independence on Wednesday, with no official celebrations held due to worsening economic hardship and ongoing security tensions.
Army spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang confirmed that the government cancelled all state sponsored activities, citing the country’s dire financial situation.
“I was informed that there would be no official celebrations due to the ongoing economic situation the country has been facing,” he told Radio Tamazuj.
Since declaring independence from Sudan on 9 July 2011, South Sudan has struggled to find lasting peace and stability. The early joy of nationhood faded quickly after a civil conflict broke out in December 2013, following a political dispute between President Salva Kiir and his former deputy Riek Machar.
A peace agreement signed in 2018 remains fragile and key provisions have not been fully implemented. Machar has been under house arrest in Juba since March amid renewed political tensions.
For the 11th year in a row, no formal Independence Day celebrations have been held. According to Maj. Gen. Lul, citizens are free to observe the day privately.
“Individuals may celebrate privately, or in groups if they are in a position to do so,” he said, adding that the security forces have been deployed to safeguard government installations and public spaces.
The spokesperson urged calm and cooperation from the public.
“Our message to the public remains the same: Celebrate responsibly. Cooperate with security forces on any matters related to safety and security.”
This year’s muted anniversary comes at a time when South Sudan’s economic outlook remains bleak. The country continues to depend heavily on oil exports, making it vulnerable to global price shocks. Poverty is widespread, with 92% of the population living below the poverty line.
| Key Socioeconomic Indicators (2025) | Status |
|---|---|
| Population below poverty line | 92% |
| Civil servants unpaid (many months in arrears) | Widespread |
| Oil dependency (main source of revenue) | Over 90% |
| Inflation and cost of living | Rising |
| Peace deal implementation status | Delayed |
The absence of official celebration did not stop individuals from reflecting on the significance of independence. In Juba, some residents expressed hope, while others voiced frustration over the slow pace of national progress.
“I am very happy for this Independence Day. We cannot take it for granted,” said Bonga Moses, a resident of Juba.
He encouraged young people to engage in agriculture and work towards building the nation’s economy from the ground up.
Another Juba resident, Moses Ayume Edward, expressed mixed feelings.
“We hear a lot of promises … but we don’t see the practicality,” he said, citing poor infrastructure, delays in civil servant salaries, and lack of basic services. Although he said he did not feel fully free, he remains hopeful about the upcoming elections scheduled for 2026.
A third resident, who asked not to be named for safety reasons, expressed deep disappointment.
“There’s no reason for me to celebrate … but there’s hope only if our government changes,” the person said.
Civil society activist Dorothy Drabuga said the dreams of independence have yet to be fulfilled.
“People thought separation would bring peace. But it is a different story,” she said, calling for full implementation of the 2018 peace agreement.
The day passed without public gatherings, parades or speeches. But for many South Sudanese, it served as a time to reflect on what has been achieved and what remains to be done to build a peaceful, stable and prosperous country.
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