By Jacob Onuha Nelson
Despite government’s failure to organize official celebration of the 14th Independence Anniversary, citizens across South Sudan utilized their hard-earned resources to make the day colourful.
The unexpected happened; citizens turned roads along residential areas, playgrounds, and spaces at homes into event venues while many were seen flying national flags along the streets.
The expression of jubilation, unravelling economic crises and security uncertainties, reflected a painstaking resilience and the yearn for peace.
Nahed Iliha Victor, a resident of Rock City, is one of the citizens, who, amid despair, celebrated the Independence Anniversary, joyously.
“The celebration was good. From day eight (8th July) up to day nine (9th July), we celebrate. Some of us went to Terkeka to celebrate there with some musicians. Others went to Luri, also to celebrate the day there,” Iliha narrated.
Conveying independence anniversary message, Iliha also urged South Sudanese to embrace peace.
“My message is for all South Sudanese; Let me say that again, happy independence to us, to everyone. Everyone, in all villages, I want to wish them a happy independence,” Iliha expressed.
Appreciative to God, Iliha acknowledged that despite hardship, they were able to have foot at the table and celebrate.
“Thank God, especially this year, that we can eat and we can sleep well; it’s another blessing from God!” she exclaimed.
Meanwhile, for Sudan Peter Chuol, a resident of Jebel, who was broke, still marvelled, saying it was amazing seeing people celebrating.
“I didn’t even go to celebrate the Independence Day due to financial situation we face. The celebration was amazing for others,” Chuol said.
Chuol appealed to South Sudanese to be optimistic toward peace.
“I believe if somebody is going to have peace, if we are going to have a peaceful South Sudan, it always begins from us, by us collaborating and by fostering peace towards the different activities,” Chuol added.
Pal Jok Jack, youth ambassador and student ambassador of Stanford International University, celebrated the day by touring various places.
“We had our own cultural team, that is, the Cholo Nyika Ngukwa jazz band. Basically, they played the traditional songs, people danced, and people overjoyed. They really had a good time at the event because it was very colourful,” Jok narrated.
Jok said during the Independence Day, they also connected with loved ones.
“We connected with different friends and families. Some of them from Kampala, Uganda, were joined by others from Upper Nile. You know, it was a very amazing event,” Jok noted, excitedly.