South Sudan Oyee! is the proposed national anthem of Southern Sudan. The anthem was selected by the South Sudan National Anthem Committee following the launch of a competition to find a national anthem in August 2010, a few months prior to the independence referendum scheduled to take place during January 2011.
The committee received 49 entries for the anthem for which the working title was “Land of Cush”. The music for South Sudan Oyee! was composed by students and teachers of Juba University.
English Translation
Oh God!
We praise and glorify you
For your grace upon Cush,
The land of great warriors
And origin of world’s civilization.
Oh Cush!
Arise, shine, raise your flag with the guiding star
And sing songs of freedom with joy,
For peace, liberty and justice
Shall forever more reign.
So Lord bless South Sudan!
Oh black warriors!
Let’s stand up in silence and respect,
Saluting millions of martyrs whose
Blood cemented our national foundation.
We vow to protect our nation.
Oh Eden!
Land of milk and honey and hardworking people,
Uphold us united in peace and harmony.
The Nile, valleys, forests and mountains
Shall be our sources of joy and pride.
So Lord bless South Sudan!