Digitel has officially launched the third edition of its Independence Marathon, held on Thursday, 9 July, as part of South Sudan’s Independence Day commemorations.
The event brought together hundreds of runners, who took part wearing Digitel Independence Marathon T-shirts designed in the colours of the South Sudanese flag. The marathon route began at Juba National Stadium, continued along Airport Road towards Beijing Supermarket, reached the University of Juba roundabout, and then returned to the stadium.
The event was attended by government officials, private sector leaders, Digitel executives, and members of the public. Among the dignitaries present was the National Minister of Culture and Heritage, Hon. Sarah Nyanath, alongside Digitel’s leadership team, including Executive Vice President De Chan.
Speaking during the event, Digitel’s Executive Vice President De Chan congratulated the people of South Sudan on the country’s Independence Day. He expressed his joy at seeing citizens come together in a spirit of peace, unity, and national pride.
Mr Chan, dressed in traditional South Sudanese cultural attire and wearing his county’s flag, symbolised the diversity and richness of South Sudan’s heritage. His presence reflected the message of the day: celebrating independence while promoting unity among all communities.
The Digitel Independence Marathon was organised to promote peace, unity, health, and wellbeing through sport. The event highlighted the importance of physical activity in improving fitness, strengthening mental wellbeing, and encouraging healthier lifestyles.
Minister Sarah Nyanath also delivered a message centred on peace, unity, and national identity. She reminded young people of the difficult struggle that led to South Sudan’s independence and encouraged citizens to reject tribalism and embrace the values of togetherness and nation-building.
The minister had the honour of presenting prizes to the winners across different race categories. The first-place winner received 2.5 million South Sudanese pounds, the second-place winner received 2 million South Sudanese pounds, and the third-place winner received 1.5 million South Sudanese pounds.
South Sudan observes 9 July as the day the country became an independent nation. The first national flag was raised in 2011 following the successful referendum in which the people of South Sudan voted for separation and self-determination.
Through this marathon, Digitel has positioned itself as one of the companies recognising the importance of sport in promoting national unity and public health. The company continues to encourage people to adopt sport and regular physical activity as part of their daily lives to reduce the risk of health problems, including heart-related diseases.
The marathon officially started at Juba National Stadium after the race referees and sports officials confirmed the route and race arrangements. Participants then competed across the designated distance, with the event ending back at the stadium in a celebration of sport, independence, and national unity.
