South Sudan National Day 2027

The date followed a referendum in which southern voters overwhelmingly chose separation after decades of civil war, displacement and demands for self-determination. Its joy was soon complicated by civil war, famine and political rivalry, so the holiday now carries both the hope of birth and the pain of unfinished peace.

The capital hosts the main Independence Day speeches and gatherings.

9 July marks the day in 2011 when South Sudan became independent from Sudan. The date followed a referendum in which southern voters overwhelmingly chose separation after decades of civil war, displacement and demands for self-determination.

The day became a powerful independence celebration because it created the world's newest country. Its joy was soon complicated by civil war, famine and political rivalry, so the holiday now carries both the hope of birth and the pain of unfinished peace.

Today Independence Day is marked with official ceremonies, speeches, flags, church services and cultural performances, especially in Juba when conditions allow. Visitors see strong use of the flag, cattle symbolism, dance, drums and public language about unity.

Across South Sudan, the day belongs to communities as much as the state. Family gatherings, prayers, grilled meat, sorghum foods and songs from Dinka, Nuer, Shilluk, Bari and many other peoples shape the national picture.

• 1956Sudan becomes independent while southern demands remain unresolved
• 2011South Sudan becomes the world's newest country
• 2013Civil war begins after political crisis

• Celebratednationwide
• CapitalJuba
• Time zoneCAT (UTC+2)

• Currency: South Sudanese pound
• Language: English
• Driving: on the right
• Capital: Juba
• Phone: +211
• Emergency: 911