JUBA — South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit has called on war veterans to remain united and support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and stability in Africa’s youngest nation.
President Kiir made the call during celebrations marking Veterans Day in Juba on Tuesday.
Veterans’ Day is observed on August 18 every year. It commemorates the Torit mutiny of August 18, 1955, when southern Sudanese soldiers in Torit rose against the colonial authorities.
The event is widely regarded as the beginning of the armed struggle for self-determination that eventually led to South Sudan’s independence on 9 July 2011.
In his keynote address on Tuesday, Kiir called on war veterans to use their influence to promote unity and peaceful coexistence among South Sudanese.
“In honor of their sacrifices, I urge you to remain united and focused on the quest for stability in our country. This is the only path towards peace and development,” Kiir said.
He paid tribute to liberation veterans, honoring their sacrifices and contributions to the country.
“This August 18th, 2026, is Veterans Day. Today, we remember the sons and daughters of South Sudan who heeded the national call to fight for our freedom,” Kiir said.
“This Veterans Day marks the 71ˢᵗ year since the soldiers of the Equatoria Corps in Torit mutinied and began our struggle for nationhood.”
Kiir reaffirmed his commitment to honoring veterans and recognized their dedication and service to the nation.
“In our history, this date is widely considered the beginning of organized armed resistance by South Sudanese,” he said.
“As we observe it, let us remember and pay tribute to our veterans who sacrificed their youth to bring forth an independent South Sudan.”
He wished the people of South Sudan a happy Veterans Day, emphasizing that national unity and stability remain essential to achieving lasting peace and sustainable development.
