About South Sudan | Republic of South Sudan

The Republic of South Sudan is the world’s youngest nation, located in East Africa with Juba as its Capital. It gained independence from the Republic of Sudan on 9 July 2011 after decades of struggle for self-determination, marking the end of a long quest for sovereignty and national identity.

The declaration of independence was attended by over 80 Heads of State and senior delegations from across the world, who gathered to witness and celebrate the birth of a new Republic, affirming international recognition and solidarity with the people of South Sudan.

Formal state ceremony: H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit at the microphone with the President of the Supreme Court in judicial robes, national flag on the ceremonial sash

H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit raises the official state volume above the green presidential podium at an outdoor national event

H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit speaking at the green presidential podium with the presidential seal, microphones, and a military officer in uniform at an outdoor state event

Following independence, H.E. Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit was formally sworn in as the first President of the Republic of South Sudan. His inauguration marked the official transfer of sovereign authority to a nationally elected leadership and signaled the beginning of constitutional governance, state-building, and the pursuit of unity, peace, and development in the new Republic.

National Symbols

The National Flag

The National Flag is an official state symbol of sovereignty and identity. It serves as a visible sign of independence and authority, and the law governs its design, display, and protection as part of the country’s recognised national symbols, as provided under Article 7 of the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan 2011 (as amended).

The colours and symbols of the flag shall have the following meanings in accordance with the National Flag Act, 2011. Each colour and symbol reflects the country’s identity and values:

Black represents the people of South Sudan
White represents peace
Red represents the blood of the martyrs shed during the struggle for liberation
Green represents the land, agriculture, and natural resources
Blue represents the waters and skies of South Sudan, symbolising unity
The star’s yellow color represents the nucleus formation of South Sudan and its resilience

The Presidential Flag

The Presidential Flag of the Republic of South Sudan is a special version of the National Flag bearing the national emblem at its centre. It is used exclusively by the President to signify executive authority and the presence of the Head of State during official functions and state occasions, as prescribed under the National Flag Act, 2011.

The Coat of Arms

The Coat of Arms is an official State symbol representing authority, unity, and sovereignty. It identifies government institutions, with its status and protection provided under Article 7 of the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan 2011 (as amended).

Features: an African Fish Eagle with raised wings, a shield crossed by a spear and traditional hoe.

Motto: a ribbon inscribed “Republic of South Sudan” with the national motto “Justice, Liberty, Prosperity” below it.

Symbolism: the eagle represents power and vision; the shield, spear, and hoe represent defence and productivity; the eagle’s tail feathers signify the ten states.

National Anthem

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 forevermore 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.