South Sudanese Gain Independence

South Sudanese Rejoice On Eve Of Independence

July 08, 2011 | NPR

Rebecca Hamilton

A Southern Sudanese soldier stands at attention during the national anthem during an independence rehearsal procession in Juba, southern Sudan on July 7, 2011. The Government of Southern Sudan is making lavish preparations to celebrate its independence from the north on Saturday, July 9th. Image by the Associated Press. Sudan, 2011.

After decades of brutal civil war with the north, South Sudan will become its own country on Saturday. But challenges related to illiteracy, infrastructure and oil remain ahead. Host Michel Martin discusses the secession with Ofeibea Quist-Arcton, West Africa correspondent for NPR, and Rebecca Hamilton, author of Fighting for Darfur.