That’s the core challenge of South Sudan’s nation-building project. Right now, politics is dominated by ethnic and tribal allegiances — especially the Dinka–Nuer divide — which fuels conflict, patronage, and mistrust.

But yes, it is possible for South Sudan to build a broader national identity if deliberate steps are taken.

Other African nations show both successes and warnings.

Why It’s Difficult

• Colonial Legacy: Borders grouped dozens of ethnic communities (Dinka, Nuer, Shilluk, Bari, Azande, etc.) into one state without a shared national narrative.

• Liberation Struggle Memory: Independence was framed around “separation from Khartoum,” not around a shared vision for the new nation. Once independence was achieved, unity against Sudan collapsed into factionalism.

• Elite Politics: Leaders instrumentalize ethnicity to secure loyalty, distribute resources, and weaken rivals.

Pathways to a National Identity

1. Shared Civic Values Over Ethnic Loyalties

• Promote “citizenship” as the core identity, not tribe.

• Example: Tanzania under Julius Nyerere—Swahili language + national education system deliberately fostered unity across 120 ethnic groups.

For South Sudan: Promote common symbols (flag, anthem, independence struggle heroes) while emphasizing rights and duties of citizenship.

2. National Language & Education

• Shared language and school curricula can socialize the next generation into a common identity.

• Example: Tanzania’s Swahili policy built cohesion; Rwanda shifted from French to Kinyarwanda + English to mark a new identity.

For South Sudan: Widespread use of English and Juba Arabic in schools/media could foster communication across ethnic divides.

3. Inclusive Institutions

• When political and military power are monopolized by one ethnic bloc, mistrust grows.

• Example: Nigeria’s “federal character principle” (quota system) tries to ensure ethnic balance in government.

For South Sudan: Civil service, army, and police should reflect ethnic diversity fairly — not just Dinka/Nuer dominance.

4. Youth & Culture as Unifiers

• Music, sports, film, and cultural festivals help young people see themselves as “South Sudanese first.”

• Example: Rwanda’s Itorero cultural program and national sports competitions promote shared identity.

For South Sudan: National football teams, arts, and cultural exchange programs could create pride beyond tribe.

5. Equitable Development

• If development is concentrated in certain ethnic regions, divisions harden.

• Example: Kenya still struggles with ethnicized development despite national symbols.

For South Sudan: Ensure that oil wealth translates into roads, schools, and hospitals in all states — not just Juba or one region.

 Risks if Ignored

• Nationhood could remain fragile, with each peace deal simply reinforcing ethnic patronage.

• Youth may inherit a cycle of tribal loyalty > national loyalty.

• State collapse risk rises if people stop seeing themselves as part of the same country.

 Conclusion

South Sudan can build a national identity that transcends tribal politics — but it requires intentional nation-building policies:

• Civic over ethnic identity,

• Common language and education,

• Inclusive power structures,

• Equitable development,

• Cultural and youth programs.

It’s a generational project — but without it, independence will always feel incomplete.