Martyrs' Day was created in memory of Dr. John Garang, who died in 2005, but it has since become a broader national commemoration of all South Sudanese who gave their lives in the long struggle for independence.

When is Martyrs' Day?

Martyrs' Day in South Sudan is celebrated every year on July 30.

The following is the list of Martyrs' Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Martyrs' Day?

Martyrs' Day in South Sudan was established after the tragic death of Dr. John Garang de Mabior, the leader of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A), who is widely regarded as the founding father of South Sudan.

On July 30, 2005, Garang died in a helicopter crash while returning from a meeting in Uganda. At the time, he had just been sworn in as the First Vice President of Sudan and the President of the Government of Southern Sudan, following the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) earlier that year.

His death came only three weeks after taking office, shocking the region and sparking mass mourning across Southern Sudan. July 30 was declared Martyrs' Day soon after Garang's death.

While the holiday specifically commemorates him, it also serves as a broader remembrance of all soldiers, leaders, and civilians who died during the decades-long struggle for liberation. It acknowledges the sacrifices of millions who fought or suffered in the Second Sudanese Civil War (1983–2005) and earlier conflicts.

After South Sudan gained independence on July 9, 2011, Martyrs' Day became one of the most important national holidays. It reminds South Sudanese people of the price of freedom and the vision of John Garang, who believed in a peaceful, united and democratic country.