South Sudan’s Triumph and Challenges at the 2024 Summer Olympics

South Sudan, one of the youngest nations, is participating in the 2024 Summer Olympics in France. Having gained independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011, after a 2005 agreement ended Africa’s longest-running civil war, South Sudan is made up of the 10 southern-most states of Sudan and is one of the most diverse countries in Africa, home to over 60 different major ethnic groups.

An unfortunate incident occurred during the Men’s Basketball tournament between South Sudan and Puerto Rico. Instead of playing South Sudan’s national anthem, the event organizers mistakenly played the anthem of Sudan, the country’s former colonizer. This error led to boos from the spectators in the arena and public viewing areas in South Sudan. The Olympics organizers apologized, stating it was not their intention to play the wrong anthem.

Despite this mishap, the South Sudan men’s basketball team, known as the Bright Stars, remained unfazed. Their victory over Puerto Rico, with a 90-79 score in their Group C campaign opener, has been a significant source of pride. Forward Bul Kuol remarked that this win has united the country, bringing together people from various tribes and backgrounds. Carlik Jones led the team’s scoring with 19 points, while Kuol contributed 12 points, three assists, and three rebounds.

Kuol, like many of his teammates, experienced the civil war firsthand, spending part of his childhood in a refugee camp before moving to Australia at the age of nine. He sees the team’s success as a new beginning for South Sudan, giving the next generation a platform to grow.

The Bright Stars have had a remarkable journey, from their early preparations to almost achieving a historic win over the USA. They have been celebrated across Africa for their achievements and have set their sights on making further history in Paris.