President Salva Kiir has paid tribute to millions of South Sudanese civilians and fallen heroes who lost their lives during the country’s decades-long liberation struggle, saying their sacrifices were central to South Sudan’s journey to independence. “On this day, we gather as a nation to pay tribute to heroes and heroines who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom,” President Kiir said. He said the liberation struggle affected generations of South Sudanese, with many losing their lives before witnessing the birth of the nation. What we remember today is not just a single event; it is a long history of collective sacrifices,” President Kiir said. Martyrs’ Day is observed annually on 30 July to honour South Sudanese who died during the liberation struggle.