The Republic of South Sudan: Independence Day Celebrations (PHOTO ESSAY)

On Saturday, July 9, 2011 The Republic of South Sudan became the world's newest country. A referendum was held from January 9 to 15, 2011 to determine if South Sudan should declare its independence from Sudan, with 98.83% of the population voting for independence. 

There are many challenges that face this new nation as serious and difficult disputes still remain between The Republic of South Sudan and Sudan, such as the sharing of oil revenues as an estimated 80% of the oil in the nation is secured from South Sudan, which would represent amazing economic potential for one of the world's most deprived areas. The region of Abyei still remains disputed and a separate referendum will be held in Abyei on whether they want to join North or South Sudan. The South Kordofan conflict broke out in June 2011 between the Army of Suan and the SPLA over the Nuba Mountains. 

The pictures below are of the celebrations of The Republic of South Sudan's first day of independence. 

Independence Parade PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEF Disabled Fighters Attend the Independence Parade PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEFFlags of The Republic of South Sudan PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEFPresident Salva Kiir (in the hat) Addresses His People PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEFUnited Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon Speaks at the Independence Day Parade PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEFIndependence Day Singers PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEFIndependence Day Band Takes a Break PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEFLong Day in the Hot Sun PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEFFreedom Suits PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEF

Independence Day Red Carpet PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEFFreedom Hummer PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEFIndependence Day Hats PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Ingram/UNICEF