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South Sudan’s Identity, In A Song

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South Sudan’s Identity, In A Song

Posted by Daron Christopher on June 23, 2011

South Sudan’s Identity, In A Song

Establishing a country requires more than just drawing lines on a map (obviously). As the international community prepares to welcome what will be the newest nation in the world, the citizens of South Sudan are formalizing their own distinct national identity, built upon a pride rooted in the long journey to independence. South Sudan already has its own symbol, the flag flown by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement. Now the soon-to-be Republic of South Sudan has released its national anthem – fittingly written by young people, who will be so critical to the country’s future. Penned by a group of students and teachers from Juba University, the choice was deemed the winner of a talent show in which dozens of entries were received. Both in the democratic process by which the song was selected and in its upbeat tune, a departure from the more militaristic Sudanese one, the anthem is setting the stage for a proud new national identity.

Oh God,
We praise and glorify you for your grace on South Sudan,
Land of great abundance.
Uphold us united in peace and harmony.
Oh motherland,
We rise, raising flag with the guiding star
And sing songs of freedom with joy
For justice, liberty and prosperity shall for ever more, reign.

Oh great patriots,
Let us stand up in silence and respect
Saluting our martyrs
Whose blood cemented our national foundation.
We vow to protect our nation.
Oh God, bless South Sudan.