South Sudanese culture calls for commemorating Martyrs' Day on July 30th.
Ahmed Salem
The Ministry of Culture, Museums and National Heritage of South Sudan issued an official statement on behalf of the Minister of Culture, Museums and National Heritage, Sarah Nyanath, regarding the arrangements for the national celebration of Martyrs' Day, which falls on July 30th.
The minister confirmed, in a press conference held today at the ministry, that Martyrs' Day is one of the most solemn and sacred national occasions in the country.
It honors the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifices for the freedom, independence, and sovereignty of South Sudan, citing the words of the national anthem: “Our martyrs, whose blood formed the foundation of our nation, we pledge to protect our homeland.”.
Minister Sarah Nyanath reaffirmed the Ministry’s firm position, previously announced during the celebration of SPLA Day on May 16 and Independence Day on July 9, that the true value of national days and occasions stems from the shared history, collective memory, and national spirit of the people of South Sudan, and not from the availability of financial resources.
She pointed out that celebrating this day remains a national duty and a shared civic responsibility for everyone.
Regarding the financial aspect, Nyanath explained that no specific budget has been allocated by the state to fund official activities and central celebrations this year.
The minister attributed this to the current economic conditions in the country, the numerous pressing national priorities, and the ongoing preparations and arrangements for the upcoming national elections.
The minister stressed that these economic challenges do not in any way diminish the importance of Martyrs' Day, nor do they absolve the nation of its collective responsibility to honor the memory of the heroes.
The Ministry of Culture, Museums and National Heritage extended a formal invitation to the governments of the ten states and the three departments, the local authorities in the provinces, the Piamat, the Pumas, traditional leaders, and educational and religious institutions.
In addition to civil society organizations, youth and women's groups, and cultural institutions, she called on them all to commemorate Martyrs' Day in dignified, peaceful, and respectful ways, each within their own sphere and local community.
The minister urged citizens to actively participate by lighting candles, reciting prayers, observing minutes of silence, organizing memorial gatherings, and holding educational activities in homes, churches, mosques, schools, and public spaces, so that these actions may be a lasting symbol of reconciliation, resilience, and national unity.
Minister Sarah Nyanath concluded the statement by affirming the Ministry’s continued commitment to protecting South Sudan’s national heritage and preserving the legacy of the martyrs to ensure that their sacrifices remain a source of lasting pride for future generations.
