Eritreans living in South Sudan gathered in Juba to commemorate the beginning of the country’s armed independence struggle, with speeches on unity and organisation followed by a cultural performance by community school students.
Eritrean Community In Juba Marks 65 Years Of Independence Struggle Through Culture And Remembrance
JUBA, South Sudan – Eritrean nationals living in Juba came together to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the beginning of Eritrea’s armed struggle for independence, combining historical remembrance with cultural performances by young members of the community.
The commemoration, held on 1 September at the Eritrean Embassy in Juba, marked the anniversary of the launch of the armed struggle for independence in 1961.
Addressing the gathering, Eritrea’s Consul in Juba, Tsegay Mehari, said the struggle began after Eritreans were denied their right to independence under what he described as a federal arrangement.
The anniversary is commemorated annually by Eritrean communities as a reminder of the decades-long struggle that eventually culminated in Eritrea becoming independent from Ethiopia in 1993.
Mehari used the occasion to reflect on the historical significance of 1 September 1961, when the armed independence movement began. The date is widely regarded in Eritrea as the starting point of the armed phase of the country’s independence struggle.
Beyond its historical significance, the Juba gathering also placed emphasis on the role of organisation and collective effort in achieving national objectives.
Teklebrhan Solomon, deputy chairman of the national committee, said strong organisational capacity remained important for achieving better outcomes, calling for renewed efforts among community members.
The commemoration also provided a platform for younger Eritreans to connect with their cultural heritage.
Students from the Eritrean community school in Juba delivered an artistic performance during the event, adding a cultural dimension to the commemoration and highlighting the role of the younger generation in preserving Eritrean traditions.
The gathering brought together members of the Eritrean community in South Sudan at a time when cultural and historical commemorations continue to play an important role in maintaining connections between Eritreans living abroad and their country’s history.
For the community in Juba, the anniversary served not only as a remembrance of the past but also as an opportunity to reinforce solidarity and encourage younger generations to understand the sacrifices associated with Eritrea’s independence struggle.
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