Martyrs Day in South Sudan
South Sudan marks Martyrs Day on July 30 to remember John Garang de Mabior and others who died in the struggle for the country’s self-determination and independence.[1] The Ministry of Labour lists it as a public holiday, while the government’s national holidays page describes it as a day of remembrance.[2][3]
Why July 30 is remembered
Martyrs Day is tied to the death of Dr. John Garang de Mabior, chairman of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM). He died in a helicopter crash on July 30, 2005, while returning to southern Sudan from Uganda. The Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services says he had recently been sworn in as First Vice President of Sudan and President of the Government of Southern Sudan under the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.[1]
The date also has a wider meaning in South Sudan: the government set it aside to remember people who lost their lives in the struggle for self-determination and liberation. The national holidays page describes Garang as the central figure remembered on the day, alongside other heroes and heroines of that struggle.[1]
A national public holiday
South Sudan’s Ministry of Labour included Martyrs’ Day in its 2022 Public Holidays Calendar as a one-day holiday on July 30, describing it as a commemoration of all martyrs. The ministry also issued a notice identifying July 30 and 31, 2024 as a public holiday period.[2][3]
The official 2022 calendar names July 30 as the holiday date and does not state a general rule for moving the day when it falls on a weekend.[2]
Remembering and planning around the day
The government describes the occasion as a time for solemn remembrance and reflection on Garang’s legacy and the sacrifices of others in the struggle for liberation.[1] Check local official notices for details of local observances.
The public-holiday listing is useful when planning work or appointments. Check directly with private businesses, banks, schools and transport services before making plans.[2][3]
Frequently asked questions
When is Martyrs Day in South Sudan?
Who is remembered on Martyrs Day?
The day remembers John Garang de Mabior and others who died in the struggle for South Sudan’s self-determination and independence.[1]
Is Martyrs Day a public holiday?
Are banks, shops and public transport open?
Check with banks, shops and transport operators before travelling, as opening hours and service schedules vary.
Sources and references
Sources used for Martyrs Day in South Sudan:
- National Holidays- Ministry of Information, Communication Technology & Postal Services, Republic of South Sudan
- Public Holidays Calendar 2022- Ministry of Labour, Republic of South Sudan
- Martyrs_Day_Public_Holiday_From_30th-31st_July_2024- Ministry of Labour, Republic of South Sudan