By Sabri Dibaco
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has called on South Sudanese to honour the sacrifices of the country’s fallen heroes and renew their commitment to peace and national unity during this year’s Martyrs’ Day commemorations.
In his national address, President Kiir said the day was dedicated to remembering the men and women who gave their lives in the struggle for South Sudan’s independence, describing their sacrifices as the foundation of the nation’s freedom.
“Today, we gather as a nation to honour the heroes and heroines who paid the ultimate sacrifices for our freedom; the history of our struggle covers generations. As a result, we lost generations during the struggle,” President Kiir said.
The President paid special tribute to the late founding leader of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A), Dr. John Garang de Mabior, as well as SPLA officers and soldiers who died before witnessing the birth of an independent South Sudan.
“Today, we remember all our comrades. First among them is our leader, Dr. John Garang De Mabior, alongside all the brave SPLA officers and soldiers who did not live to see the birth of our country,” he said.
President Kiir also extended his tribute to millions of civilians who lost their lives and property during decades of armed conflict.
“We want to also honour millions of our civilians who lost their lives and properties during the war. What we remember today is not just a single event. It is a long history of collective sacrifice,” President Kiir stated.
Reflecting on the country’s post-independence journey, President Kiir acknowledged that South Sudan’s aspirations were disrupted by the conflict that erupted in December 2013 but emphasised that the government remains committed to building a peaceful and prosperous nation.
“Our determination to build a better South Sudan did not end with independence. We remain bound by duty to deliver the fruits of freedom to our people. Although the conflict that began in 2013 interrupted our progress, we continue to work towards a better country,” he said.
The President appealed to citizens across the country to promote reconciliation and peaceful coexistence in their communities.
“As we remember this day, I ask you to promote peace in your communities. I ask you to also remember your loved ones who lost their lives during the struggle,” he said before calling for a minute of silence in honour of those who died for the nation.
He concluded his address by praying for God’s blessings upon South Sudan and its people.
Martyrs’ Day is observed annually on July 30 in South Sudan to commemorate those who lost their lives during the country’s long struggle for self-determination.
The day also marks the anniversary of the death of Dr. John Garang de Mabior, the founding leader of the SPLM/A and the first Vice President of Sudan under the Comprehensive Peace Agreement. Dr. Garang died in a helicopter crash on July 30, 2005, just weeks after assuming office.
The national holiday serves as a moment of reflection on the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle that culminated in South Sudan’s independence on July 9, 2011.
Across the country, government officials, veterans, families of fallen heroes, religious leaders, and citizens commemorate the day with memorial services, wreath-laying ceremonies, prayers, and public addresses that emphasise peace, reconciliation, and nation-building.
This year’s observance comes as South Sudan continues efforts to implement the peace agreement, prepare for national elections, and strengthen stability after years of conflict, with leaders urging citizens to uphold unity and work together toward lasting peace and development.