South Sudan's independence today

All set for South Sudan's independence today

Just hours before south Sudan becomes independent, a mood of joyful expectation swept through its capital yesterday, with crowds dancing in the streets amid last-minute preparations for today's historic ceremony.

World leaders started to arrive on the eve of independence, including UN chief Ban Ki-moon.

"The people of south Sudan have achieved their dream. The UN and the international community will continue to stand by south Sudan. I am very happy to be here," Ban told reporters at the UN airport in Juba.

The main ceremony will include military parades, prayers, raising the newly proclaimed Republic of South Sudan's flag and the country's first president, Salva Kiir, signing the transitional constitution.

Millions of southern Sudanese, and foreign dignitaries including 30 African leaders, will mark the birth of the world's newest nation.

Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir repeated his claim to stand by the new nation on Thursday, while adding that good future relations between the two countries depends on secure borders and non-interference in each other's internal affairs.