Social and Welfare Event; Cultural and Historical Event
1. As a curtain raiser, Embassy of India donated 6MT of life saving medicines on 12 April 2021 for the benefit of flood affected people of South Sudan. 2. Embassy of India organized an event to celebrate the festival of Baisakhi on 13 April in the Chancery premises. Keeping in mind the covid restrictions, only few members of the Indian community attended the function. 3. An event was organized on a low scale due to covid restrictions in the chancery premises to celebrate Ambedkar Jayanti on 14 April to commemorate the memory of B.R. Ambedkar. South Sudan officials along with member of Indian Community attended the event and a discussion was held on the importance of Constitution for every country who think of its citizen’s progress.
Philanthrophic work and Yoga Celebrations organised during Amrit Mahotsav Celebrations by EoI Juba (June 21, 2021)
1. Indian Embassy donated food and non food items to orphanage for the old age and physically challenged people. 2. Celebrations of International Yoga Day in the Chancery premises. 3. Articles about Yoga and Ayurveda were published in the local print media and event of Yoga Celebrations in the Chancery was also covered in the local print media.
Independence Day Celebrations; Articles in Local Media; Food Donation Event Aug 2021
(i) Flag Hoisting programme on Independence Day in the Chancery with Indian Battalion stationed in South Sudan under UNMISS. (ii) Publishing of articles in the local print media about India's achievements and developments. (iii) Food donation campaign by Indian Association residing in Juba.
Interaction with Indian Community
Ambassador had his first interaction with the prominent members of Indian community in South Sudan on 31 August 2021. Ambassador briefed the Indian community about the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsava and requested the Indian community for an enthusiastic participation. The Indian community members shared their views on business environment in South Sudan and also informed Ambassador about welfare activities undertaken by the community for the local population during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Hindi Diwas celebrated on 14 Sep 2021
As a part of AKAM, the Mission celebrated Hindi Diwas in the Chancery. Hindi Essay Competition and “Kavita Path” were organized in keeping with the themes of AKAM and the winners were awarded prizes and certificates. Ambassador addressed the Indian community gathering and highlighted GOI efforts to promote Hindi in official work.
Celebration of ITEC Day 2021
The Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Day 2021 was celebrated in Juba on October 1, 2021. Representatives of line Ministry of Education and Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation along with over 100 ITEC alumni attended the event. Ambassador also launched an Indian Alumni Portal for South Sudanese nationals, who have studied or done training in India to promote interaction among them and disseminate information about education facilities available in India. A power point presentation followed by demonstration of yoga poses by Indian Peace Keepers in South Sudan was also part of the event in keeping with spirit of AKAM festivities.
Celebration of Indian Festival -Navarati, 2021
Indian Community Celebrated Navratri Festival at Juba as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav- Celebrating Indian Culture. A video message from Shri V. Muraleedharan, Minister of State (External Affairs) greeting Indian Community in South Sudan on the occasion of Navratri was screened at the inauguration of the festival on 9 October 2021 at Hindu Temple, which included Navratri Puja, Garba & Dandia dance and community feast.
Visit of MOS(VM) to South Sudan
To intensify outreach to foreign countries and Indian diaspora abroad during the 75th year of independence under the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsava, Shri V. Muraleedharan, Minister of State for External Affairs [MOS(VM)] visited Juba (South Sudan) from 20-22 October, 2021. He had meetings with the President, First Vice President, Foreign Minister and Parliamentary Affairs Minister and discussed all aspects of bilateral relations. The visit also included an interaction with the Indian community and a session with Indian entrepreneurs. MOS(VM) also visited Indian Army Field Hospital under UN Mission, BAPS Hindu Temple and Daughters of Mary Immaculate (an Indian religious congregation) premise.
NATIONAL UNITY DAY
National Unity Day was celebrated by the Mission to commemorate birth anniversary of Sardar Patel. Ambassador administered the “National Integration Pledge” to all India-based officials. A short video on life and values of Sardar Patel was screened. Ambassador paid tribute to Sardar Patel and in his speech at the event underscored the contribution of Sardar Patel in national integration of India.
Indian Constitution Day
The Mission organized an Academic Forum and Panel Discussion on Constitutional Values in collaboration with the University of Juba. Ambassador, Vice Chancellor, Dean of Law Faculty and law experts and around 150 law students participated in the event at the University of Juba. Ambassador in the panel discussion gave a detailed account of the constitutional provisions regarding the official language (Rajbhasha) in India and emphasized the importance of determining an official language for a newly independent country while framing a new Constitution. Mission separately organized “Dekho Apna Desh” quiz online. Mission officials also participated in Pre-amble Reading and Constitution Day Quiz. Ambassador administered the “Samvidhan Diwas” pledge to the Embassy Officials.
Mahaparinirvan Diwas of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
The Embassy officials paid floral tribute to Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar on the “Mahaparinirvan Diwas” marked on 6 December 2021. In an Academic Discussion organised in the Chancery, Ambassador highlighted some lesser known facts about Dr. Ambedkar. The Head of Chancery spoke on various aspects of life and values of Dr. Ambedkar. A short documentary and power point presentation on Dr. Ambedkar were also screened on the occasion.
Celebrating Achievements of Indians Abroad: Felicitation of Lt. General S.S. Tinaikar, Force Commander of UN Peace Keeping Mission in South Sudan
Embassy of India, Juba organized a function on 18 December 2021 to felicitate Indian Army Lt. General S.S. Tinaikar, SM, VSM, on successfully completing his assignment as the Force Commander of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). Members of Indian Community and Indian Army & Police Officers in the Peace Keeping Mission, attended the function to honour the Indian General for his outstanding leadership in establishing peace and security and making a historic contribution in this new country.
750 Million Surya Namaskar
On the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti on 14 January, 2022, a special virtual Surya Namaskar programme was organised in which 75 lakh people were at the same time expected to practise Surya Namaskar around the world at 07:30 a.m. (Juba time). Team Embassy led by Ambassador of India also enthusiastically practiced Surya Namaskara at 7:30 am on 14.1.2022.
Rangolis on Makar Sankranti
The Embassy of India, Juba, South Sudan celebrated Makar Sankranti festival on 14 January 2022 in the spirit of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. Rangolis were made at the Embassy premises in keeping with the theme of the festival & Indian traditions.
Ensuring well being of Indian nationals fleeing the conflict in Sudan which broke on 15 April 2023
Coordinating efforts with the Indian community, South Sudanese authorities, International Monitoring Organization and other humanitarian agencies to arrange transportation, lodging and boarding promptly is of paramount importance.
Pushpanjali to Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, the Father of Indian Constitution, on his birth anniversary on Friday 14 April 2023.
The Embassy officials, some Indian community members and friends of India joined to pay tribute to the great leader.
South Sudanese Parliamentary delegation visit to New Delhi
Rt. Honourable Jemma Nunu Kumba, the Speaker of the Reconstituted Transitional National Assembly of the Republic of South Sudan led a Parliamentary delegation to New Delhi, India, on the joint official invitation of the Vice President of India and the Speaker of Lok Sabha (the Lower House of the Parliament of India) from 3-7 April 2023.
Meeting with Hon. Mary Nawai Martin, the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs of South Sudan to discuss follow up action
A fruitful meeting with Hon. Mary Nawai Martin, the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs of South Sudan, to discuss follow up action on the visit of South Sudan Parliamentary Delegation led by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba to India in April 2023.
10th edition of annual Juba Premier League cricket tournament
The 10th edition of annual Juba Premier League cricket tournament opened on 7 May 2023 at Juba. Nine teams comprising Indians and other nationals, mostly South Asians, are participating in the tournament.
100th episode of "Mann Ki Baat" by Hon'ble Prime Minister of India
#MannKiBaatAt100 screening in Embassy of India, Juba (South Sudan) attended by Indian Embassy officials and diaspora community members.
Martyrsdom Day, 23 March 2023
The ceremony included a Pushpanjali (Floral Tributes), which was followed by plantation of tree sapling at the Embassy compound.
"Holi Celebrations - Promoting Cultural Ties with the Diaspora"
This Embassy joined Indian Association in South Sudan in the celebrations of the Festival of Colours, Holi on Sunday, 12 March 2023. Over 100 diaspora members and friends of India came together for the celebration, which is all about playing with colours and fun-filled get together. The evening involved various amusing and exciting activities, such as singing and dancing over hit Bollywood chart busters, Cooking competition, Antakshari and Quiz on the festival.
“Yoga Session for Women” organised by the Embassy on 3 March, 2023
Refer to our earlier posts on “Yoga Session for Women” organised by this Embassy on 3 March, 2023 ahead of International Women's Day (IWD). ITEC Alumni and women from different walks of life participated in the Yoga Session and benefitted from it. The session was also played live on our Facebook page.
Business Networking Session
As part of its trade promotion activities, the Embassy of India in Juba organized a business networking session in Juba (South Sudan) on 23 February 2023. Some heads of diplomatic missions, representatives from South Sudan National Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture (SSNCCA), business associations and business community members participated in the event.
Get together of alumni of Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation
This Embassy organized a get together of alumni of Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation (ITEC) on 17 February, 2023 at the Embassy. Addressing the participants, Ambassador V K Sharma appealed to the alumni to foster even closer bilateral relations between the two countries by acting as a bridge. A few participants shared their experiences in India with the audience and gave valuable feedback about the various programmes they attended in India and how these benefited them in their career.
An informative session on places of interest for tourism in India
This Embassy conducted an informative session on places of interest for tourism in India on 10 February 2023. The programme included address by Ambassador of India, Mr. V K Sharma, Q&A session and short presentation on some attractive places to visit in India.
Tributes to Gandhiji on Martyr's Day
This Embassy paid tributes to the #fatherofthenation #MahatmaGandhi on his death anniversary on 30 January. Friends of India also joined the Embassy officials in paying respect to the Mahatma.
74th Republic Day of India on 26 January 2023
This Embassy celebrated the 74th Republic Day of India on 26 January, 2023 morning. Ambassador Vishnu Kumar Sharma unfurled the National Flag and read out excerpts from the President of India’s address to the nation.
Tributes to Subhash Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary
Late Subhash Chandra Bose is one of the tallest Indian Nationalists whose patriotism towards India during India's freedom struggle continues to inspire us all. Netaji, as he is popularly known and remembered, founded the 'Azad Hind Fauj' that valiantly fought the Colonial rulers. This Embassy held a Pushpanjali (floral tributes) inside the Embassy premises in memory of the great leader of India on the occasion.
“Cultural Fest - 75 Years of India’s Independence”
This Embassy and the Indian Association in South Sudan (IASS) organized a cultural evening on 14 January to celebrate the festivals of Pongal, Makar Sankranti & Lohri. The Indian community also felicitated Lt. Gen. Mohan Subramanian, Force Commander of UNMISS who graced the festivity as the Guest of Honour for the event.
A session on Ayurveda
This Embassy conducted a session on Ayurveda, a holistic ancient Indian medical science, based on various plants and herbs having medicinal values as well as on promotion of tourism in India. The programme included short presentations and screening of videos depicting various places of tourism interest in India, and on myriad benefits of Ayurveda.
"Vishwa Hindi Diwas" (World Hindi Day) and "Pravasi Bharitya Diwas" (Indian Diaspora Day) celebrations
Embassy of India, Juba organised "Vishwa Hindi Diwas" (World Hindi Day) and "Pravasi Bharitya Diwas" (Indian Diaspora Day) celebrations on 10 January 2022. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Vishnu Kumar Sharma congratulated the Indian diaspora on the occasion and appreciated their work and humanitarian activities in South Sudan. This year has been even more special for Indian diaspora in South Sudan as Mr. Sanjaykumar Shivabhai Patel, Managing Director of Jit Supermarkets in Juba South Sudan was conferred prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman (Indian Diaspora Award) by Hon'ble President of India for his charitable activities and humanitarian work spread over years in South Sudan.
Promotion of personal cleanliness and hygiene under Swacchhta Campaign
To inculcate among the citizens the habit of personal cleanliness and hygiene, Government of India organizes special campaigns under the theme of "Swatch Bharat Mission" - Clean India Campaign - from time to time. One such special cleanliness campaign is being organized from 1 January onwards until 15 January, 2023 across India, for a good start to new year 2023.
Meeting with prominent Indian community business members
Members of Indian Association in South Sudan and some some prominent Indian business community members based in Juba called on the Ambassador of India, Mr. Vishnu Kumar Sharma on 22 December, 2022. Among others, the following issued were discussed :- - Consular issues ; - Challenges in boosting trade ties between India and South Sudan and way forward amid those challenges. - Celebration of Vishwa Hindi Diwas and Festivals of India. Indian community members assured of their continued support in all endeavours of the Embassy.
A get together of ITEC Alumni on 16 December, 2022 at the Embassy.
The Embassy of India in Juba organised a get together of ITEC Alumni on 16 December, 2022 at the Embassy. Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Vishnu Kumar Sharma, gave a brief account of the training programmes being conducted under ITEC Programme in India. He mentioned that over 1000 South Sudanese had attended ITEC training courses in India, fully funded by the Government of India, and appealed to ITEC alumni to help foster even closer bilateral ties between the two countries by acting as a bridge. The Chief Guest, Hon. Prof. Dr. Julia Aker Duany, Undersecretary, Ministry of Public Service & Human Resource Development thanked the Government of India for its contribution in capacity building. In his remarks, Mr. Joseph Droto, Director General from Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism pitched for investment and cooperation in developing tourism in South Sudan. Mr. Bryan Elwich, Representative from Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, made a presentation on agriculture potential of South Sudan, particularly the millet cultivation. Some ITEC alumni present at the event, including Hon. Peter Loro Alberto, Under Secretary from Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism shared their experiences in India and gave valuable feedback about the various programmes they attended in India and how these benefited them in their career. Presentations on Tourism and Trade Promotion between the two countries were also made during the course of the event. The platform was also used to promote United Nations International Year of Millet (IOM) 2023. Representatives from concerned Ministries, who were also ITEC alumni, shared their insightful perspective in these areas. Among others present, were representative from Satguru Travels, a leading Tour Operators in Juba, who also made a presentation on promotion of tourism between the two countries.
Tributes to Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar on Mahaparinirvan Divas
On the Occasion of #MahparinirvanDiwas, Embassy of India, Juba paid floral tributes to Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, Father of the Indian Constitution. Ambassador also briefly addressed those present for the occasion and talked about the life and virtues of Dr. Ambedkar.
Trek to Jebel Kujur on the eve of Constitution Day of India on 26 November 2022
In keeping with the motto of "Unity in Diversity" and on the eve of Constitution Day of India on 26 November 2022, Embassy of India organised a Solidarity Walk in the morning of Saturday the 26 November 2022 at Jebel Kujur Hill in Juba, South Sudan. Members of Indian community and friends of India in South Sudan joined this Embassy for a trek to the top of Jebel Kujur with great enthusiasm. We thank members of Indian community and friends of India in South Sudan for taking part in the trek in the true spirit of togetherness and solidarity.
Preamble reading on Constitution Day, 26 November 2022
This embassy read Preamble on Constitution Day, 26 November 2022
Unity Day celebrations - marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on 30-31 October 2022
This Embassy celebrated National Unity Day marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel during 30-31 October 2022. In this context, following activities were held - - A Unity run was organised by the Embassy on 30 October, 2022. Members of Indian community took part in the run despite intermittent rains on the day. - On 31 October, the celebrations began with a pledge taking ceremony where all Embassy Officials, led by Ambassador Vishnu Kumar Sharma, took part, which was followed by a Pushpanjali ceremony to pay tributes to Sardar Patel. - This was followed by participants forming a Unity Chain portraying the symbol of unification, strong bilateral relationship and friendship of India and South Sudan. - The morning celebrations concluded with participants having specially flavoured Indian Uni-TEA.
A short session on the promotion of Ayurveda on 20 October 2022 as part of 7th Ayurveda Day celebrations
This Embassy organised a short event for the promotion of Ayurveda on 20 October 2022 as part of 7th Ayurveda Day celebrations (this year Ayurveda Day, as we earlier shared, will be observed on 23 October 2022). A brief presentation on the benefits of Ayurveda, a holistic ancient Indian medical science, which is based on various plants and herbs having medicinal values, was made. This apart, video clips covering the benefits of herbs & spices for a healthy living in our daily life were screened.