Thursday, on 9^th July 2026, the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College (RDFCSC) celebrated the 15^th Independence Day anniversary of Republic of South Sudan. The event was attended by students of the Senior Command and Staff Course (SCSC) 15, the College Faculty and support Staff.

The Republic of South Sudan officially gained its independence on 9 July 2011, becoming Africa’s 54th sovereign nation. Since then, 9^th July has been observed annually as the country's Independence Day. As part of the college’s tradition, the South Sudan national anthem was played to mark the occasion.

The South Sudanese student, Maj Deng He Yuot, addressed the gathering, sharing his honour in celebrating a significant milestone in African history with the College community: “We continue to thank the international community especially the United Nations Peace Keeping Mission in South Sudan of which Rwanda Defence Force is a party for the continued support towards implementation of the pending issues in the 2005 CPA and delivery of humanitarian service. We salute and congratulate our liberation struggle martyrs our President and Commander in Chief of the South Sudan People’s Defence Force (SSPDF); H.E Gen Salva Kiir Mayardit, along with the Chief of Defense Forces of the SSPDF; Gen Santino Deng Wol and people of South Sudan on this historic day of our independence. "He thanked the college for allowing them to celebrate their independence.

The Deputy Commandant and Chief Instructor (Dy Comdt & CI), Brig Gen Jean Chrysostome NGENDAHIMANA remarked: “On behalf of the faculty, staff and students of the College, I extend our warmest congratulations to the Government and the people of the Republic of South Sudan. We also convey our heartfelt congratulations to Lt Col Deng Awar MARIAK and Maj Deng He Yuot KUIT, who proudly represent their nation within our College community. Your country’s independence remains a powerful testament to resilience, perseverance and the unwavering aspiration of a people to determine their own destiny. I extend my sincere congratulations to the Government and the people of the Republic of South Sudan. May your nation continue to enjoy lasting peace, unity, stability and sustainable development. Happy Independence Day.”