A Question That Refuses to Fade
The question “We created the country, but have we created the South Sudanese?” struck me during a political discussion on the Clubhouse app, a platform that has become a modern arena for South Sudanese voices. Many South Sudanese gather there to express their opinions on politics, governance, and national issues. Yet, because of the ongoing war and the unsatisfactory governance practices of the ruling elites, these discussions often reveal something deeper: bureaucratic arrogance, corruption, entitlement, and a persistent undercurrent of tribal and regional bias.
A Moment That Sparked Reflection
Despite these challenges, some topics on Clubhouse are genuinely thought‑provoking. This particular title captured my attention. The host crafted it to invite South Sudanese to reflect on a fundamental question about our national identity. I took the stage to contribute, but the conversation soon drifted off course as others interrupted and shifted the topic entirely. Feeling that the question deserved more serious reflection, I decided to write about it. To me, this question is not hypothetical; it is a real and urgent inquiry into who we are becoming as a people.
Independence Exposed Our Divisions
The composer of the title was essentially examining the tribal and regional divisions that have become more visible since independence. These divisions did not begin in 2011, but independence exposed them more clearly. In responding to this inquiry, I acknowledge that although we have achieved independence, we have not yet cultivated a cohesive South Sudanese identity—one in which all individuals perceive themselves as part of a unified nation.
Creating a country is a political act. Creating a people is a social, cultural, and moral project. South Sudan has accomplished the first, but the second remains unfinished.
What It Means to “Create the South Sudanese”
To establish a South Sudanese identity, we must pursue several political and civic objectives:
1. A Unified National Identity
An identity that does not erase our ethnic backgrounds but rises above them. A sense of belonging that is shared, not imposed.
2. A Collective Sense of Destiny
A belief that all communities rise or fall together. A future imagined in common, not in fragments.
3. Trusted National Institutions
Institutions that serve citizens equally, without tribal favoritism. Courts, security forces, and public offices that reflect fairness and professionalism.
4. A Culture of Citizenship
Citizens who understand their rights and responsibilities. A public that participates rather than watches from the sidelines.
5. Social Cohesion
Healing trauma, building reconciliation, and fostering trust among communities that have long been divided.
The Political Will Required
Creating a people who love themselves within one country requires political will. Politicians must first create a constitution that works for all citizens, not just for those in power. They must then implement policies that promote unity rather than division. Only through deliberate political choices can we shape a national character grounded in the principle of “one people, one nation.”
A Nation Still in the Making
The question remains: We created the country, but have we created the South Sudanese?
The answer, for now, is that we are still in the process. Nationhood is not born in a moment; it is built through commitment, courage, and a shared vision of who we want to become. If we are willing to confront our divisions honestly and work toward a common identity, then the creation of the South Sudanese is still possible—and still within our reach.
The writer, Morris Kuol Yoll, is a South Sudanese Canadian. He resides in Calgary and can be reached at: myoll2002@yahoo.com
The views expressed in ‘opinion’ articles published by Radio Tamazuj are solely those of the writer. The veracity of any claims made is the responsibility of the author, not Radio Tamazuj.
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