By Sabri Dibaco
South Sudanese leaders have called on citizens, particularly young people, to embrace unity, resilience, and patriotism as the country marked its 15th Independence Anniversary with a 10-kilometre marathon organised by Digitel South Sudan in partnership with the South Sudan Athletics Federation.
Speaking after the race at the Juba International, the Minister of Museums and National Heritage, Sarah Nyanath Eliajiah, described the event as more than a sporting competition, saying it symbolised the country’s determination to overcome challenges through collective effort and national unity.
She said completing the long walk reminded him of the resilience demonstrated by South Sudanese during the liberation struggle.
“We are people of resilience. Today we have proven that once again,” Nyanath said.
The minister singled out a young participant identified as Angel Mercy, who completed the marathon barefoot, describing her determination as an inspiration for the country’s youth.
She applauded Digitel for promising to provide the young girl with sports shoes and athletic gear, saying such gestures encourage young people to pursue positive activities instead of destructive habits.
Sarah Nyanath also praised Digitel as a home-grown South Sudanese company that continues to invest in national development and called on citizens to support local businesses.
On his side, the Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Thok Tuauk Thok, urged South Sudanese, especially the youth, not to lose hope despite the country’s economic and political challenges.
He reminded participants that independence came at a great cost, with many citizens sacrificing their lives during the liberation struggle.
“Do not live in despair or hopelessness. You have a country. Be hopeful because you have a place you call home,” Thok said.
He emphasised that the responsibility of building South Sudan rests with its citizens, particularly the younger generation.
“No one else will come from anywhere to build this nation. It is me and you who will build beautiful schools, hospitals, roads and bridges,” Thok added
He urged citizens to put political differences aside and work together for national development, citing the success of South Sudan’s national basketball team as an example of what unity and determination can achieve.
The Secretary General of the South Sudan Athletics Federation, Marko Akol Deng, praised the growing participation in athletics, noting that the second edition of the marathon produced new competition records.
He announced that athlete Jacob Chol won the men’s race, claiming 2.5 million SSP, while Angelique Ajith emerged as the fastest female runner, also winning 2.5 million.
The second runner was awarded 2 million, and the third runner won 1.5 million in both men’s and women’s athletic awards, also setting a new event record.
He thanked Digitel South Sudan and other corporate sponsors for supporting athletics and encouraging young people to pursue careers in sports.
“We encourage many South Sudanese to raise their careers in athletics so they can represent the country in future international competitions,” Akol Deng said.
The Independence Marathon attracted professional athletes, government officials, members of parliament, organised forces, corporate leaders, and hundreds of members of the public who gathered to celebrate South Sudan’s independence through sport and community participation.
The Digitel Independence Marathon was organised as part of activities marking South Sudan’s 15th Independence Anniversary and also coincided with the company’s 10th anniversary. The annual 10-kilometre race aims to promote healthy living, national unity, and youth empowerment while strengthening support for athletics in South Sudan.
Organisers say the event has grown significantly since its inaugural edition and is expected to become one of the country’s flagship sporting celebrations.