South Sudan To Celebrate First Independence Day Amid Grim Realities

07:56

July 08, 2011

A Southern Sudanese soldier listens to the national anthem during an independence rehearsal procession in Juba, southern Sudan on Thursday. (AP)

Here & Now Guest

Fergus Nicholl, BBC reporter in Juba, South Sudan

The world's 193rd country, the Republic of South Sudan, marks its first Independence Day tomorrow. Bells will ring, drums will sound and international dignitaries will be treated to parades and speeches.

Security will be high, to ensure what the government insists will be a "peaceful and orderly environment."

BBC: Continuing Coverage of South Sudan Independence
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This segment aired on July 8, 2011.