Rumbek — Teresa Nyankol Mathiang, a renowned South Sudanese singer died on Saturday. She was from Abyei and sang songs of liberation during the Sudanese civil war.

The cause of her death remains unclear but according to Juba hospital she was suffering from a respiratory problem.

Secretary for information, Bol Makueng Yol, called on the people of South Sudan to join her family in mourning.

Her homeland, Abyei is a contested region on the border between South and north Sudan.

Various citizens of the state expressed their sadness for the nation's loss.

Ferguson Arol Nyiguala praised her "courageous songs."

Sunday Manyang said that Nyankol has "inspired thousand of South Sudanese".

Chien Yong Kueric Nyuon described her as one of South Sudan's "greatest super heroines"' and said that the people of the nation are proud of her achievements.

Maluach Madit Maluach said that Nyankol's songs had motivated her remain in education in her youth.

William Koji said her death brought into question the efficiency of South Sudanese hospitals.

Arop Manyang said she was "a mother of South Sudan in many ways. She was a fighter. We will all be missing her."