Yambio Celebrates 13th Independence Day with SSPDF-Led Cleanup and Call for Peace

Yambio Celebrates 13th Independence Day with SSPDF-Led Cleanup and Call for Peace
SSPDF Cleaning Curia Compound (Photo by Joseph Ernesto)

Yambio Celebrates 13th Independence Day with SSPDF-Led Cleanup and Call for Peace

By Joseph Ernesto

As South Sudan marks its 13th anniversary of independence today July 9th, 2024, the South Sudan People's Defence Force (SSPDF) took the lead in organizing a cleanup campaign in Yambio yesterday July, 8, 2024.

The SSPDF personnel were deployed to various parts of the city, including St. Mary catholic parish Curia, at Azande King Palace, and the Yambio State Hospital, to participate in the cleanup efforts. The initiative aimed to beautify the town and ensure a clean and tidy environment for the Independence Day celebrations.

"As we mark this important milestone in our nation's history, we must come together as a community to take pride in our surroundings," said Deputy Brigade div 16 Aketch Makir. "By cleaning up our streets and public spaces, we are preparing for the festivities and instilling a sense of civic responsibility among our people."

The cleanup campaign saw SSPDF soldiers working to collect and properly dispose of waste, clear overgrown vegetation, and ensure the general upkeep of the targeted areas. The hospital, in particular, received a thorough cleaning, with the SSPDF team ensuring that the facility was in pristine condition to accommodate the influx of visitors expected during the independence celebrations.

Fr. Thomas Bagbiowia the Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura Yambio (CDTY) on his part, applauded the SSPDF's initiative and called on all South Sudanese to work towards peace and unity.

"This cleanup campaign is a wonderful example of the SSPDF's commitment to serving the people of Yambio and South Sudan as a whole," said Father Bagbiowia. "As we celebrate our 13th year of independence, it is crucial that we all come together and work towards lasting peace and stability in our country. This is the only way we can truly honor the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom."

The cleanup efforts were well-received by the community, with many residents expressing their gratitude and appreciation for the SSPDF's involvement. The event was seen as a testament to the growing partnership between the military and the civilian population to build a sense of togetherness to build a cleaner and more prosperous South Sudan.

As Yambio prepares to celebrate its 13th  year of independence, the successful cleanup campaign and the call for peace have set the stage for a joyous and meaningful occasion, where the people of the town can come together to reflect on their nation's progress and look forward to a brighter future.