South Sudan Bishop Warns Leaders to ‘Repent’, Admit

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August, 2014 Issue 1, Volume 2 www.thechristiantimes.net

South Sudan readys to join the East African Community South Sudan bishop warns leaders to ‘repent’, admit

mistakes THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 1 TCT Read The Christian Times Newspaper

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2 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Contents August 2014 Issue 1 Volume 2

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Rev. John Daau

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Moses Wasamu South Sudan WRITERS Cover Story: Page 6: Ebenezer Gore readys to join the East African Community James Chillim Joseph Oduha

CONTRIBUTORS Mercy Gakii Faith Mc Donnell Martin Olando David Pollit

DESIGN & LAYOUT Martin Kariuki

SALES & MARKETING 8 10 Benjamin Lem Majak Daniel Abraham Khot

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Offices at: Multi-Service Training Center, Conference Room 2, Behind Juba Stadium, 13 Juba, South Sudan. 9 Upper Nile hit by cholera Tel: Office +211 (0) 921 226 802, Kiir speaks against interim government +211 (0) 955 486 861 11 Sales & Marketing : 12 More boarding schools will boost girls enrollment +211 (0) 956 703 452, 095622003, 0955017617 13 IGAD condemns violation of ceasefire E-mail: [email protected] www.thechristiantimes.net 15 Watchdog warns that oil is driving the Souh Sudan dept crisis

Visit us on Facebook and 16/17 LEADERSHIP 18/19 COMMENTARIES 24/25 FEATURES Twitter 26/27 HEALTH 32 BOOK REVIEW 34-36 PEACE BUILDING 37 GENDER & DEVELOPMENT 38/39 YOUTH JUNCTION/ENTERTAINMENT 40/41 SPORT TCT Editorial We welcome peace talks from Kiir and Machar, but… outh Sudan has just celebrated its 3rd independence anniversary, at a time when the country is at war against itself. Various parts of the country are experiencing instability, while the talk of federalism is also raging. Many people had dreams of the country taking off after many years of destruction, when it gained independence from the north, in a referendum that was voted for by more than 90% of the citizens. SBut many dreams have been shattered, hopes have been dashed and the people are asking themselves, what went wrong, what hit us? When the current crisis broke out, an eye-witness who found himself in the midst of violence narrated to TCT how some people who were in his company who were running away from their homes, were not even sure what was happening and they were not sure where they were going. That is how bad it was. Addressing the nation during the independence celebrations, President Salva Kiir expressed his willingness to do everything in his power to see that the peace process succeeds. Speaking from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Dr. Riek Machar too expressed his desire for the talks that have been suspended indefinitely, to resume. This is plausible. But the question that comes to mind is, will they walk the talk of peace? This is not the first time that the two leaders have said that they are willing to come together and negotiate. Many will take their word with a pinch of salt because, once beaten, twice shy. Already, South Sudanese have witnessed two ceasefire agreements between the two parties being violated. The first of these agreements was done in January, while the latest one was signed in May and was immediately flouted by both parties. Some interested parties, including the civil society and church leaders, have previously expressed their doubt about the seriousness of the two sides, opining that they could be buying time with the hope of winning the fight on the ground and with guns. But many say that the crisis cannot be resolved with shedding of more innocent blood. As some church leaders said a few weeks back, in war, we as South Sudanese will all be losers. Now that the two main protagonists have said that they would like for the peace talks to resume, it is our hope that they are serious and that they are ready to give it their all. This past week, the European Union announced sanctions against two military leaders, one from the rebel side, and one from the government side. This is in addition to sanctions that were announced earlier by the US, against individuals from the two sides. If these sanctions are what it will take for the two sides to get serious and come back to the negotiating table, so be it. We believe that all who are interested in the welfare of the country will support any efforts, from whatever quarter, that will exert pressure on the two sides to resume the talks and put in place an interim government, as per an earlier agreement between the two sides. For now, we hope and pray that goodwill will prevail from the two leaders, and that they will provide leadership and bring back their teams to the negotiating table. Time is of essence, because as things stand now, they may not meet the two month deadline they had to put in place a transitional government. But it is not too late. President Kiir and Dr. Machar can still rise up to the occasion and provide leadership, which will restore peace in the country, and hope among the citizens.

DISCLAIMER: The Christian Times Newspaper and Online Magazine welcomes opinions, comments and letters. Comments, opinions and letters are sole responsibility of the author and does not in any case represent the position of the newspaper. The Christian Times Newspaper and Online Magazine reserves the right for admission and to edit articles for purpose of space, time and clarity.

To our partners, we thank you for your continued support and Prayers. This edition was made possible with generous support of South Sudan Committee for National Healing, Peace and Reconciliation (CNHPR), USA- based Board of Directors of Good Shepherd College & Seminary (GSCS) South Sudan and the Board of Directors of The Christian Times Ltd (TCT). May the Lord advance your desire for peace and bless you abundantly.

4 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Commentaries TCT South Sudan government needs to be transparent in its financial dealings

his week, an international

watchdog has warned that

the South Sudan govern- REFLECTIONS

REFLECTIONS ment is getting into a dangerous cycle of borrowing Tfor oil. Sadly, most of the borrowed funds will be used on the armed forces and not for infrastructural development. According to its latest budget es- timates for 2014-15, the government plans on borrowing SSP 3 billion ($1 billion) from oil companies. Global MOSES WASAMU Witness says the amount is almost With equivalent to the amount donors are spending to alleviate the humanitarian catastrophe that is unfolding. continue to seek weapons. ties? Is it winning the war with guns Global Witness says that more South Sudanese Defense Minister or bringing the war to an end through alarmingly, the public have no idea on General Kuol Manyang Juuk report- dialogue? The same question can be what terms the money is being bor- edly confirmed the arms purchase and asked of the rebels. rowed. All the negotiations have been said the consignment was ordered five But, let me go back to where this done behind closed doors. months before violence broke out. He argument began. Since it is the tax-paying members said that his role is to defend the na- Lack of transparency and account- of the public who will repay this mon- tion and that is why he is equipping ability on the part of leadership is one ey, then the public has a right to know the army. of the many reasons why the country why the money is being borrowed, These reports, if true, are disturb- is at cross-roads now. The government how it will be repaid and how it is ing. cannot afford to do things as they have going to be spent. As they say, there The fact that the government is been done in the past. should be no taxation without partici- buying arms at a time when humani- If government is borrowing money pation in decision-making. tarian agencies working in the country on behalf of the citizens, then the citi- Only last month, a US-based or- are seeking for funds to support relief zens have to participate in negotiat- ganization, Fund for Peace, ranked efforts shows a lack of intention to end ing and making those decisions. That South Sudan as the most fragile state in the world. Even though government officials have disputed this, it is a cause for concern, coming at a time when the crisis has turned the country from a development path to a humanitarian path. This means that all development projects have been put on hold as government and humanitarian agencies concentrate on the most urgent humanitarian activities. Media reports indicate that South Sudan has spent at least $1 billion on weapons and delivery systems since the fighting broke out, according to a western diplomat in Juba. At the same time, humanitarian agencies have ap- pealed for $1.3 billion to provide relief to people affected by the conflict. South Sudanese citizens celebrating on the 3rd anniversary of independence in Up- Bloomberg reports that China is per Nile. President Kiir and Dr. Machar have recommitted themselves to the peace selling $38 million worth of assorted process: Will they walk the talk of peace? arms to the government. Analysts say the war soon. As some stakeholders is one of the tenets of democracy, to that while the government and the reb- have said, it seems that both the gov- which the government subscribes. els say they’re committed to a peace- ernment and the rebels believe they Otherwise, increasing the citizen’s ful resolution to their dispute, both can win the war in the battleground debt burden behind their backs is sides are still intent on resolving their and not on the negotiating table. fraud and will breed more trouble in differences on the battlefield and will What are the government’s priori- the future. THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 5 TCT Cover Story South Sudan readys to join the East African Community

Senior government officials pose for a photo after attending a one-week induction course to familiarise themselves with the operations of the community, and to develop their negotiating skills before South Sudan signs the treaty. By Moses Wasamu prior to the training that took place in ty,” he told TCT in Nairobi, where the outh Sudan has taken Nairobi, Kenya, South Sudan did not training took place. further steps towards have the capacity to negotiate with the He revealed that the government joining the East Af- other partners in the community. will involve all sectors in the negotia- rican Community “We thank the East African Com- tion process by rolling it down to all (EAC), with senior munity countries and especially Ke- sectors of society like the civil society, Sgovernment officials attending nya, for supporting the training…We community-based and faith-based or- a one-week induction course to have been exposed to the treaty, its ganizations. familiarise themselves with the history, and organs of the communi- “Joining the community will have operations of the community, a lot of positive impact in many areas and to develop their negotiating Joining the community like security, trade, socio-economical- skills before South Sudan signs ly and culturally,” he said. the treaty. will lead to the He added that joining the com- “This is now a turning point, munity will lead to the harmonization we thank our government, our harmonization of of many laws, relations, institutions, leaders, donors, the private sec- and that people will access goods and tor, for having agreed to sponsor many laws, relations, services at lower costs and that invest- the training programme,” said institutions, and that ment will flow freely. Mr. Stephen Doctor Matatia, the Additionally, South Sudan stu- team leader of the group of 26, people will access dents and institutions of learning will who is also Director General for be able to participate in exchange pro- External Trade in the ministry of goods and services at grammes with students from other in- Trade, Industry and Investment. stitutions in the region. He said that South Sudan lower costs and that ‘This will lead to exchange of ex- had already applied for mem- investment will flow periences in all domains…We will ac- bership and was in the process quire new skills and experiences…All of being accepted. He said that freely. these will need to be formalized,” said

6 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Cover Story TCT Mr. Matatia. our national interests in joining re- shared…there are challenges that can In spite of all the positives that gional and international confedera- be addressed,” he said. are being touted for joining the com- tions,” he said. The theme of the training was munity, Mr. Matatia agreed that there Mr. Daau said the fears of the ‘Understanding, Managing and Ne- were still reservations by some South delegates were allayed because they gotiating Regional and East African Sudanese about joining the commu- learned that the community members Integration’. It was facilitated by ex- nity. He said that with the new skills subscribe to the policy of equal mem- perts from member countries of the and knowledge that the officials had bership in sharing of benefits, and that community. acquired, South Sudan will be able to no member should be domineering. The training was jointly funded by negotiate with other member coun- “Relationships should be struc- the World Bank and the government tries to clarify some issues which have tured in a way that interests are of South Sudan. It was conducted by been a cause of fear and reservations facilitators from the Institute for Re- by citizens. gional Integration and Development, “We were afraid and thought that Centre for Regional Integration of our markets will be flooded by goods Catholic University of Eastern Africa. from outside, and that the labour mar- Some of the topics they covered ket will be dominated by foreigners… included Introduction to the Law of it was more of an economic fear,” said East African Community, Role, Ca- Rev. John C. Daau, a religious leader pacity and Organs of East African and a member of the team. “The facili- Community Court of Justice, Impact tators took away our fears…We will on South Sudan Institutions, What have friendly negotiations…They (fa- South Sudan Needs to do in Prepara- cilitators) gave us examples of Rwan- tion for Negotiation, Diplomacy, Key da, Burundi and Tanzania who were Terms in EAC Integration and Nego- equally apprehensive before joining tiation Skills, EAC Customs Union, the community.” Common Market, Monetary Union, He said that South Sudan has no and Political Federation. way but to join the community since Last week, the Secretary General the country cannot afford to be isolat- of the East African Community visited from the rest of the world commu- ed South Sudan, where he met cabinet nity, which is coming together through ministers and other senior government political and trade confederations. officials, to push further the agenda of ‘We should diagnose and pursue joining the community.

THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 7 TCT National News talks in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa have made little progress. Last month the talks were sus- Kiir says he is pended indefinitely, with both side blaming each other for the breakdown of the talks. “If we don’t stop war many of our committed to people will continue to die,” Mr Kiir said, while insisting he was still committed to the talks. The streets of the Juba were lined peace talks with banners proclaiming “One Peo- ple, One Nation”. But the crowds were not as big as they have been in the past. Aid agencies have warned that without massive funding and a quick resolution of the conflict, famine will set in within weeks. But speaking from Addis Ababa in Ethiopian, Dr. Machar said his team was willing to resume talks. “We are here seeking a peaceful solution to this problem... we are here ready to talk,” he told reporters. He called for meaningful sanctions against the leaders in Juba if the peace process was to move forward. Madam Rebecca differs with ambassador In Nairobi, Kenya, the widow of fallen liberation hero Dr. John Ga- rang, Rebecca Garang differed with the South Sudan ambassador to Kenya James P. Morgan on the cause of the crisis facing the country. The ambassador insisted that the crisis was caused by a failed ‘coup’ by Dr. Machar while Madam Rebecca said there was no coup. President Salava Kiir: ‘‘Put down your guns and come home’’. “The events that happened on De- cember 15 was a coup that failed… resident Salva Kiir rebellion against the Sudan People’s and South Sudan is moving ahead, we has said he is ready Liberation Army forces. are not going to dwell on the past…the for peace talks, even The fighting has been marked by government is committed to achieve as he urged rebel chief widespread atrocities against both peace…the only way to get together Dr. Riek Machar to members of the Nuer people, to which and leave behind what has happened Presume talks to end the conflict Dr. Machar belongs, and Mr Kiir’s and get a way of how we can solve which has driven the country to Dinka group, the largest tribe in the our problems… we are not going to the brink of famine. country. Three ceasefire deals that bog ourselves down,” said the ambas- The president said that he were signed by both parties to the sador. was committed to a peaceful conflict have failed to stick, and peace Madam Rebecca said that she was resolution of the conflict, even if sad that South Sudan was finding it- Dr. Machar’s forces continue to self in such a sorry situation three attack government forces. “…We were more years after independence. “Put down your guns and democratic under the “Somebody like me would feel come home,” Mr. Kiir spoke in sad, because the baby…is lying in the Juba during celebrations to mark struggle than now… ICU, but we are praying that the baby three years of independence. would live,” she said in a televised The war in the country has South Sudan flag is show on KTN TV in Kenya. been raging since mid-Decem- sinking in the blood of The ambassador said that majority ber, when presidential guards of South Sudanese were jubilant be- loyal to President Kiir clashed the people of South cause of the peace they were enjoying. with troops supporting Dr. Sudan…” (Rebecca “There is a spirit of celebration, Machar, who fled away from people had fought for more than 50 the city and has been leading a Garang) years, just to get to this point, there is 8 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 National News TCT no reason why people should not cel- to see how to come back on track… ebrate,” he said. we want dialogue to move the people She said the problems facing the of South Sudan forward,” she said. nation were as a result of leaders put- While the ambassador blamed Dr. ting their interests ahead of those of Machar for the current crisis and the those of the citizens. She said that the deaths that took place in Bor in 1991, democratic space had shrunk since the Madam Rebecca said South Sudanese country got independence. need to forgive each other and focus “…We were more democratic un- on the future. der the struggle than now…South Su- “For how long are we going to dan flag is sinking in the blood of the scratch the old wounds on our back, people of South Sudan…” she said. instead of healing and coming togeth- Asked whether the current govern- er…the spirit of forgiveness has to be ment can fulfill the dream and vision in us in order to take our people…to of her husband, Madam Rebecca an- the other side of the river…we need swered in the negative, saying that the to deal with the issues, what are the country lacks leadership. problems…” she said. South Sudan is crying for lead- The ambassador accused Madam ership Rebecca of taking sides in the conflict “South Sudan is crying for leader- instead of playing a neutral role when ship…there is no leadership, we need she said that the crisis was not a cre- somebody who will lead the people ation of Dr. Machar, and that the war of South Sudan...somebody who will was forced on him. lead and direct them…the vision for Rebecca said before her dismissal the Sudan People’s Liberation Move- last year, her advice to the president Madam Rebecca Garang ment (SPLM) was not for John Ga- was disregarded. She urged the presi- rang alone…” she said. was started by her late husband. dent to shoulder the burden of every Madam Rebecca said those in ‘We had a call and did not just South Sudanese and to take responsi- leadership now have a responsibility fight for the sake of fighting…we need bility for what was happening in the to deliver to the people the vision that reforms, we need to sit down and talk country. Paralegals trained on rule Upper Nile hit of law and human rights by cholera outbreak esidents in Upper Nile have been urged R to take precautionary measures against the outbreak of cholera, amid reports that 100 people have been infected. State health minister Opal Adwok Amon issued the warning in a media interview, during which he revealed the government had formed a technical health committee tasked with carrying out public education. ourty 40 paralegals were of human rights especially on the As of 9 July, the UN trained on rule of law and protection of women’s rights. reports that a total of 3,152 human rights as part of The training for the paralegals cholera cases, including 70 F UNDP’s ongoing support was critical in terms of improving deaths had been reported to the government of South Sudan compliance of international human throughout the country, with to strengthen access to justice and rights norms and standards with Juba and Torit counties ongo- rule of law. the local justice system, and to ing areas of concern . In Wau South Sudan, like most sensitize the rural communities on Shilluk, Upper Nile State, the African countries, maintains a their legal rights. cumulative number of regis- dualist legal system of formal The training was organized by tered cholera cases reached and customary justice system. UNDP in Wau, Western Bahr El- 652, with 17 deaths. Currently The customary justice system has Ghazal State from 30 June - 17 207 patients are undergoing limitations in terms of observation July. treatment. THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 9 TCT National News

cause they said the civil society delegates invited by mediators were not South Sudan bishop representative of the country. The government’s boycott followed a media report in which IGAD warns leaders to Executive Secretary Mahboub Maa- lim was quoted as saying it was ‘stupid’ of Salva Kiir and Riek Machar to ‘repent’, admit mistakes think they could win the war by force of arms. ishop Enock Tombe of delegation of religious leaders, said “I read that in my hotel room [in the Episcopal Church of that ‘truthtelling’ and ‘justice’ must Addis Ababa] and I said, ‘If this is the South Sudan says that come after the guns fall silent. reason that could stop them from com- political leaders have “You cannot have reconciliation ing to the talks… then they are not se- messed up the country and peace without truth-telling, justice rious.’” Band want to run away from justice, and forgiveness. Our political leaders The cleric called the perceived warning that politicians of whatever must be aware that whatever they are insult “an issue of language,” saying allegiance will face opposition from doing are being recorded by the inter- that the IGAD official was calling the church if they continue to wage national community and also by us, so ‘stupid’ only an idea or thought, not war. we know what they have done in this a person. “We in the church will work country,” the bishop said. He also accused the rebels of fight- against those who killed people, took “And therefore, if they are so re- ing to overthrow the government to away the people’s prosperity and have luctant [to stop fighting] they have take power. not repented,” he said. to face the accountability first to the “Those outside wanted to over- The Bishop of Rejaf Diocese people. And if we get another chance throw the government so that they take warned the warring parties to the to vote for them again, I don’t think power and those inside do not want to conflict in South Sudan to observe we will vote for them.” Enock said. sign peace but want to maintain their the peace agreement signed in May, ‘They are not for peace’ positions in the government.” stressing that the leaders are being The bishop recounted also the in- “So when you look at these two closely watched. cidents last month in which both the behaviors they were not serious, they “Our message as the church is government delegation and rebel del- are not for peace and each one is pur- very clear: The war must first stop,” egation boycotted peace talks in the suing his or her personal or political said the bishop. Ethiopian capital. interest,” Enock added. In his interview with Radio Tama- First, the government boycotted zuj earlier this month, Enock Tombe, the talks because they claimed their ‘No peace without justice’ who does participate in the Addis president was ‘insulted’ by the me- Bishop Enock noted that what Ababa peace talks as a member of the- diators; then the rebels boycotted be- happened on 15 December 2013 has opened fresh wounds in the country. But he cautioned it is too early to talk about healing when people are still fighting: “I tell you it is going to wait until the guns fall silent.” The bishop is a member of the National Platform for Peace and Rec- onciliation, a joint platform launched by three institutions in South Sudan: the church, a specialized parliament committee, and the government peace commission. He stressed that ‘truth’ was an important part of this initiative: “Once the truth is found, then justice will follow.” “We are just preparing the ground basically to coordinate between the three bodies: the specialized committee in national parliament, the peace commission in the government, and then the church,” he said. Enock urged South Sudanese to recommit to national dialogue and repent to God for what has happened. Bishop Tombe says that South Sudan political He said peace will not come unless leaders have messed up the country and want to people admit their mistakes. run away from justice. He says the church will oppose such leaders. (TCT FILE PHOTO) (Radio Tamazuj) 10 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 National News TCT In another story, calm has returned to Unity state after heavy fighting erupted earlier in the week in Guit and Kiir speaks Nhialdiu and other areas in the out- skirts of Bentiu town. Army spokes- person Col. Philip Aguer described against interim the situation as calm. “The situation is cautious. We can talk of relative stability when the attacks are off and the Sudan People’s government... Liberation Army (SPLA) is on maxi- 60 days. mum alert if they might be attacked. “They threatened us that after 60 Definitely, they will respond in self- days there must be peace, and if there defense whether they are attacked is no peace, there will be economic near Bentiu or in Wankei or anywhere. sanctions. Any one of us who has They are ready to repulse any attack money will be frozen, government but we remain committed to the cease- things will be stopped so that we don’t fire,” he said. buy military equipment and weapons and so on. But I am saying we ... lays are not going for war. We need peace and want to reconcile all our people foundation in South Sudan. No one should have stone for a problem with another. We will be By James Chilim strong if we are united and peaceful Central Bank in resident Salva Kiir has like during our struggle. We had no reiterated his warning that tribalism, our tribe was SPLM. We Rumbek any attempt to form an in- who were fighting and those who were By TCT Reporter terim government without in town had no parties. We were South President Salva Kiir Mayardit has him as the elected presi- Sudanese, and we were one. That was laid a foundation stone for Central Pdent would lead to destruction of the the way we succeeded in the struggle Bank of South Sudan in Rumbek. country. and became independent today,” he The branch which is a currency The president was reacting to added. center is expected to keep reserve some intellectuals and critics who say Since meeting Dr. Machar in Ad- money for the country. that the only way peace can prevail in dis Ababa, Ethiopia, the president The Bank is being constructed South Sudan is to form an interim gov- continues promising South Sudanese by China First Highway Engineer- ernment of national unity without Dr. that his government is committed for ing Company and the project will Riek Machar and President Kiir. peace and there will be peace soon. cost $22.2 million. The construction Addressing a rally at Wau Stadi- work is expected to take 18 months um in Western Bahr el Ghazal State, to complete. President Kiir stressed that there was “They are saying they Addressing a crowd after lay- a need for national reconciliation to ing the foundation stone, President solve the current crisis. want to dissolve the Kiir stressed that the building of the “They are saying they want to government from the institution will create job opportuni- dissolve the government from the ties for the local community and will National Assembly, Executive, then National Assembly, boost the state’s economy. He urged later the states with their assemblies, public to cooperate with state au- governors, new governors appointed, Executive, then later thorities to improve infrastructure. members of national and state as- the states with their Regarding peace, President Kiir semblies. I told them that you want to promised people in Lakes state bring peace. If you bring peace, who assemblies, governors, that his government was commit- will approve it and endorse it in the ted to bringing peace even though constitution? It is the National Assem- new governors appointed, it has been elusive so far. He said bly, and if you dismantle this body that members of national and the government was ready for peace was elected you would have destroyed but blamed the side led by Dr. Riek South Sudan and I will not accept it. state assemblies. I told Machar, who he says was giving This is a condition and situation they conditions that are difficult to fulfill. will not achieve it and they will not them that you want to He once again accused Riek of cross it,” he said. bring peace. If you bring attempting to cause a coup. The President also spoke strongly “He is still putting forward his on the 60-day period to create the tran- peace, who will approve agenda that is related to his coup at- sitional government, saying that the it and endorse it in the tempt in Juba and we are not agree- international community was giving ing to any of those because they are the government pressure of economic constitution?’’ not for the benefit of South Sudan sanction if it doesn’t achieve peace in people,” said Kiir.

THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 11 TCT National News More boarding schools will boost girls’ enrollment and privileges of human beings. She further said that it is important for the youth to be educated and made aware of the importance of education, and especially to young girls. The day was marked on 11th July, under the theme “Investing in young people”. The occasion happened at a time when end of year exams are taking place in the country, amid challenges for young people. By James Chilim structing boarding schools for our Because of the current conflict he South Sudanese commu- girls and manage them,” said Nap- engulfing the country, young peo- nity has been urged to open won. ple have had to sit for their end of T up more girls’ boarding Napwon added that the govern- year exams in displaced people’s schools and discourage practices ment should do more to send girls camps in UNMISS sites. that affect girl’s education such as to school and make laws to ban Sixty-three students, includ- early marriage and pregnancy so early and forced marriages, to al- ing only one girl, sat for the South as to increase girls’ enrollment in low the girl child have equal op- Sudan Certificate of Second- schools. portunity in education. ary Education (SSCSE) exams Speaking during the commem- She said that there was need to at the UNMISS Tomping Pro- oration of World Population Day, discourage the issue of girls not tection of Civilians site in Juba the Deputy Minister of Culture, going to school and to make educa- on the same day that the World Youth and Sports, Josephine Nap- tion free for girls in South Sudan. Population Day was celebrated. won, said cultural practices such as This one will encourage those The Ministry of Education re- early marriages, forced marriages ones that are at the grass roots and ported earlier this year that 13,678 and keeping girls at home for dow- the poor families to bring their pupils, scattered across 101 test- ry only should be dealt away with. girls to school, she said. ing sites, had registered to take the “We need the government, Napwon said that the country exams. Some 1,351 of them have together with our development needs to eradicate cultures that been reported to be taking exams partners, to encourage girl child prohibit girls to go to school and at UNMISS sites in the country. education in South Sudan by con- anything which hampers the rights NILE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY – JUBA, located at Thongpiny between UN OCHA and Abyei Tree Adjacent to Vamp Supermarket, with better facilities and affordable fees, is your school of choice for education of your child! With our experienced staff and teachers, we offer Nursery, Primary and Secondary education levels using Cambridge/British Curriculum alongside the South Sudan National Curriculum. “Transforming the present … shaping the future” For more information, contact us on 0955990022, 0955990011 or E-mail: [email protected] 12 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 National News TCT Police emergency call centre to open soon By TCT correspondent the presence of s a measure to curb the senior police of- escalating crime rates ficers, diplomatic in the country, the min- corps, United istry of Interior has an- Nations Mission nounced that it will open in South Sudan Athe first Police Emergency Call Centre (UNMISS), UN (ECC) as a pilot in Juba. agencies, private The centre will start operating soon sector and the to enable members of the public to con- media. tact the police directly by dialling 777, With the new a toll free number, through any mobile call centre, the service network round the clock. The police will be opening of the call centre will help the able to respond police deal with some of the emerg- to emergencies ing crime challenges in the country. faster, professionally and effectively. ted by unknown individuals at night, The ECC has been established with The UNDP, with funding from the who shoot people and then disappear. support from the ministry of Telecom- government of Japan, supported the He said that the government will munications, United Nations Devel- procurement of communication and strike hard to stop the problem. The opment Programme (UNDP), Germa- IT equipment for the centre. security situation has been worrying ny International Development Agency This announcement comes at a since the debate on federalism became (GIZ), and mobile service providers time when government has come un- a hot topic for discussion in the coun- - MTN, Zain, Vivacell and Gemtel. der cricitism for the rampant crime try. On the other hand, the govern- Earlier, the South Sudan Nation- in the country. Speaking recently, the ment feels challenged by politicians al Police Service (SSNPS) held the minister for Interior in the Republic advocating for it, terming the idea of closing ceremony after training 533 of South Sudan Mr. Aleu Ayieny Aleu federalism an insurgency which could police personnel on different ECC announced measures to help curb ram- create more harm than good to the functions. The ceremony was held in pant criminal activities being commit- country. IGAD condemns violation of ceasefire By TCT reporter “The IGAD Special Envoys attack was carried out by opposi- he Intergovernmental Author- strongly condemn this attack in Na- tion forces comprised of a mixture ity on Development (IGAD), sir by forces of the SPLM/A–In Op- of armed youths and defected SPLA Twhich is overseeing the South position which is in blatant violation soldiers (SPLA in Opposition) loyal Sudan peace process in Addis Ababa, of Cessation of Hostilities (COH) Dr. Machar. Ethiopia, has condemned the attack Agreement, signed between the Gov- UNMISS said that the attack rep- on Nasir town, Upper Nile state, by ernment of the Republic of South Su- resents the most serious resumption of forces loyal to former vice president dan and the SPLM/A–In Opposition hostilities since President Salva Kiir Dr. Riek Machar, in violation of the on 23rd January 2014,” the statement and the former vice president met in ceasefire agreement in place. further said. Ethiopia on 9th May and recommit- “It is regrettable that this inci- This incident happens after the ted to compliance with the Cessation dent has come at a time when the 10th June Summit in which the two of Hostilities Agreement they had mediation team just concluded con- principals pledged to end the war and signed earlier in January. It says the sultations with the leadership of the establish a transitional government attack is a clear violation of the Ces- SPLM/A–In Opposition in Addis within sixty days. With this latest in- sation of Hostilities Agreement. Ababa, on how to operationalize cident and the suspension of the talks, “It is deplorable that this major at- the signed Agreements and move it is unlikely that this deadline will be tack comes at a time when intensive the peace process forward,” said the achieved. efforts are underway by mediators statement. IGAD says that while the casu- of IGAD to convince all parties to The attack took place at a time alties of this attack are yet to be as- resume the suspended peace talks in when the chairperson of the IGAD sessed, the mediation team is sad- Addis Ababa. It is also worrying that Special Envoys to the South Sudan dened by the continued loss of lives the attack was launched in total dis- Peace Process and his delegation not only of combatants but of vulner- respect of the presence of the IGAD were in Juba to consult with the gov- able groups like women and children. Cessation of Hostilities Monitoring ernment and other stakeholders on The IGAD Special Envoys are and Verification Team who deployed how to reconvene the peace process now appealing to the parties to re- in Nassir last month,” said the acting in Addis Ababa. main committed to the Agreements head of UNMISS, Raisedon Zenenga. According to the IGAD Joint signed and to exercise maximum re- It called for full compliance with Technical Committee in Juba and straints and desist from any further the cessation of hostilities agreements based on the report of the Monitor- violations. by all parties to the conflict and their ing and Verification Team in Nasir, Meanwhile, the United Nations return to the negotiating table without the SPLM/A–In Opposition forces Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) further delay. crossed the Sobat River from the East. has also condemned the attacks. The THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 13 TCT National News Elders from Equatoria region embark on a peace initiative By James Chilim gion and together with greater Bahr he Governor of Western Equa- El- Ghazal and Greater Upper Nile toria State Mr. Bangasi Joseph elders,” he said. TBakosoro has said that a group The search for peace in South of six elders from Western, Eastern Sudan has been a regional and inter- and Central Equatoria has comes up national issue. Regional elders are with regional peace initiative. always believed to be the ones tribal- Speaking in Yambio, Bakosoro ising politics in South Sudan. A few added that the Equatoria region el- weeks ago, there was high tension ders will be meeting in Juba first and among Equatorians and Dinka on will then extend their meeting with federalism debate, causing unrest in elders in Upper Nile and the Bahr Juba town with rumours of Equatori- El-Ghazal region. He said the el- ans wanting to attack Dinkas. ders will attempt to bring sustainable Some Equatorian politicians have peace and co-existence among South been vocal in the federalism debate, Sudanese. Rebel leader Dr. Riek Machar where they have been calling for a “We want to come to narrow people and one nation, to cement and federal system of government, which down our differences, our doubts, so understand ourselves in this failure the rebel leader Dr. Riek Machar has that now we ask the government for in which South Sudan is undergoing. also been calling for. a sustainable peace in the country. So Can elders also do something good Hopes are rising that this elder’s we brought these elders so that we for the country or not? That’s why we peace initiative will be platform of can now sit with other elders in other begin to talk among ourselves as el- people expressing peace agenda to states together as one family, one ders of South Sudanese Equatoria re- both the government and rebels. Kiir inaugurates maternity hospital in Rumbek

A front-view of the newly opened Salva Kiir Mayardit Maternity Hospital in Rumbek. resident Salva started during the reign of the former Lakes State has been Kiir Mayardit has Governor Chol Tong but wasn’t experiencing tribal and inaugurated a new completed until this year. When communal conflicts before the maternity hospital in caretaker Governor Major General current political crisis erupted Rumbek, Lakes state. Matur Chut took over, he renamed in 2013, between forces loyal to PThis was the president’s first the hospital from Rumbek Teaching rebel leader Riek Machar and visit to any of the states in the Hospital to Salva Kiir Mayardit government of President Kiir. country, immediately after the 3rd Maternity hospital. Late last week, cattle raiding independence anniversary. The building of the hospital is reached Rumbek town, where The hospital named Salva meant to address one of the main police confronted the attackers. Kiir Mayardit Maternity Hospital, challenges in South Sudan - lack of Lately, there have been is a donation from the Chinese health infrastructure and service. murmurs against the caretaker government. The construction The new hospital is expected to give governor’s administration for of the hospital cost $60 million. services to women and reduce child highhandedness and failure to The construction of the hospital mortality rates. tackle insecurity.

14 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 National News TCT Watchdog warns that oil is driving the South Sudan debt crisis n international organization that campaigns against poor leadership and environmental destruction has warned Athat South Sudan is getting into a dangerous cycle of oil-backed debt, most of which will be used on arms and not for development purposes. The Global Witness (GW) said this on the third anniversary of South Sudan’s independence. The budget announced recently projects that the government will borrow SSP 3 billion ($1 billion) from oil companies in the next financial year. Paloch Oil Fields in South Sudan. Global Witness has warned that South Sudan is GW says the amount in equation is getting into a dangerous cycle of oil-backed debts. a huge sum and is almost equivalent to the amount donors are spending to ment projects go unfunded. Around needs to get serious about the peace alleviate the humanitarian catastrophe 35% of the budget will be used to pay talks too. And if these talks are to pro- that is unfolding. Worryingly, most for the security sector. duce a stable South Sudan, oil has to of this money will go straight back to At the same time, UN Secretary be at the top of the agenda,” says GW. the same oil companies to pay off last General Ban Ki-Moon has warned that On the eve of the anniversary, out- year’s debts. if the conflict continues, half of South going UN representative in South Su- More alarmingly still, the South Sudan’s population will be homeless, dan Hilde F. Johnson issued a scathing Sudanese public have no idea on what starving or dead by the end of the year. attack on the country’s leaders, calling terms this $1 billion is being bor- After the debts are paid-off and the them a “self-serving elite” responsible rowed. It has all been agreed behind soldiers paid, little remains for spend- for a looming “man-made famine”. closed doors. ing that will directly benefit ordinary The peace talks in Addis Ababa, “Citizens must be told the terms citizens. Only 12% of the budget will Ethiopia, have made little progress that their government have struck be invested into healthcare, infrastruc- and last month they were suspended with the oil companies so they can be ture and education combined. indefinitely, with both sides to the sure their government is negotiating The organization recommends that conflict refusing to attend the discus- the best deals in the high risk world of if the government is to avoid bank- sions. oil-backed borrowing,” says GW. ruptcy, it must take steps to get its “If there are further delays... we The government and the rebel’s house in order and make any future can draw only one conclusion; that failure to negotiate a way out of the loan deals transparent. this is only about a scramble for pow- conflict is pushing up state spending “If it is serious about investing er,” Ms Johnson said before leaving on the armed forces, while develop- in the South Sudanese people, it also the country. New vaccine to protect infants is launched vaccine that will protect infants from A representative of Swiss a number of diseases based GAVI Alliance that A funded the vaccine, Maryse was launched last week. The vaccine will protect children Dugu, said the launch was from diphtheria, whooping significant to help people and cough, tetanus, liver disease, particularly children in South pneumonia, meningitis and Sudan. septicemia. South Sudan has been At the official launch at high risks due to lack of vaccine. Many parents in Juba, the Cabinet Affairs Minister Mr. Martin Elia don’t take their children for Lomuro administered the vaccinations. This has caused Pentavalent vaccine to infants so much disabilities and even at the Al Sabah Children death. The new vaccine is meant Hospital in Juba. He urged parents to ensure their children to help infants and encourage are vaccinated as scheduled. parents to bring children for vaccinations. THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 15 TCT Leadership What do you really want to do with your life? that.” Or, “I’m great in sales, so that is what I should do.” Many people are just good at doing a lot of things, LEADERSHIP but that does not mean that is their calling. It could be said that we spend a lot of time fulfilling other people’s expectations of us; still, it is not our calling. It maybe that we have employees who have one step out the door even though they are good With at what they do because someone hasn’t taken the time to find out, nor DAVID POLLIT did they, what it is that is their deeply embedded interest; what they really want to do. I encourage management observation of details, then is stuck elping employees find and employees to spend time thinking their greatest potential in sales, but this employee would be about what those interests are. in an organization is great in compliance and audits. Can to find what we call you spot that? She might light up their ‘embedded life when you talk about surveying and David Pollitt is a well-known Hinterests’. How many employees doing checklists while keeping track author in leadership and educational work at jobs, and then do what of items and those things that others circles. He is also known for his they love on the side. I suppose don’t care about. that is practical and to be expected; Many times in life we just take Christian Science fiction and secular meaning, that there are not that the path of least resistance, “Well, science fiction books. His books and many jobs that meet those heart-felt my dad did that so I guess I can do educational papers can be viewed on smashwords.com interests of employees. Heart-felt, that sounds very nice, warm, and fuzzy, like dealing with those who really care about taking care of people like nurses, doctors, and ministers. Is it really possible for us to care enough about what we do to call it a calling of some kind? Well, good managers can help you to find that niche, just for you. According to T.Butler and J.Waldroop in their article The Art of Retaining Your Best People, this is called job sculpting, and it is challenging because it requires managers to play both detective and psychologist. It’s funny because one description of embedded life interest is, “As a geothermal pool of superheated water. It will rise to the surface in one place as a hot spring and in another as a geyser. But beneath the surface-at the core of the individual-the pool is constantly bubbling. Deeply embedded life interests always seem to find expression, even if a person has to change jobs-or careers-for that to happen”. Sometimes, we don’t know what is a calling to us; we just feel differently and good with ourselves when we do certain things. Think about what makes you happy. I admit that I want and seek to teach. I did for years as a professor of finance and business; still I’m at right now. I know where my heart is, but I do what I have to do while waiting to do what I really want to do. Very many employees are in the same boat, but good managers can spot that and find ways to make sure, if at all possible, those special places are available within the organization. You know, the employee who loves accounting and 16 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Leadership TCT Why top managers need to pay attention to the grapevine e are in the age of social media, and mobile phones have TIPS helped make social media a must-have Wfor many who are keen on keeping up ON HR with news and trends around them. And I am strongly convinced that managers who listen beyond their formal communication channels With are more likely to get a true picture of a situation, an environment or Mercy something that is unfolding. Organizations have formal Gakii communication systems including reports, staff-meetings, department lunches; Or through their mobile turn gone defensive, or silent on the meetings, conferences, company devices. The grapevine arises from present situation. newsletters, official notices, and social interactions, and is as fickle, Well, grapevine may never really memos to keep the group uniformly dynamic, and varied as people are. go away, even in formal corporations, informed about any developments. It is the expression of their natural but it can be misused as a propaganda Unfortunately, most managers and motivation to communicate, and is machine meant to wield power. supervisors seem to be apprehensive completely natural. It was reported last week that the about gossip, rumour and other Nearly all information within government had banned debate on informal, and oft times exaggerated the grapevine is undocumented the issue of whether South Sudan methods of passing information and is thereby open to change and should become a federal nation or around. In many corporates, social interpretation as it moves through the not. Despite this ban, there is still media pages such as Twitter and network. a lot of information that is passing Facebook are blocked, ostensibly to mployees in every around through social media and help their employees concentrate on organization appreciate other unofficial channels. their work. the importance of However, power without control However, despite such efforts, grapevine, and this is is as destructive as a fire in the dry people will pass hints or half- something that cannot be season. Just the way fire is controlled information pieces of juicy rumour Eavoided completely from the work for useful purposes, so should at the water dispenser; Or in the place. As such, management needs grapevine be stemmed with logical, kitchenette as they pick or warm their to brace for this, especially with the sensible, formal communication millenials making headway into top which can answer questions and put managerial positions. It is time they out rumours once and for all. viewed grapevine in light of the positive developments it can bring to the workplace. It is through grapevine that the nation of South Sudan at the moment is getting some truer, more daring accounts and confessions, more unkind suggestions, and a lot of jabs at the leadership which has in

Unfortunately, most managers and supervisors The writer, Mercy Gakii, is a seem to be apprehensive about gossip, rumour consultant trainer in the areas of Human Resource management, and other informal, and oft times exaggerated workplace wellness, business Ethics and general work place issues. She methods of passing information around. In many is a graduate of Master of Science in Human Resource Management corporates, social media pages such as Twitter from Jomo Kenyatta University and Facebook are blocked, ostensibly to help of Agriculture and Technology, in Kenya, and a part time lecturer their employees concentrate on their work. in management at different universities. THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 17 TCT Commentaries Celebrate the Fourth: Fight for Meriam Ibrahim’s Freedom! udanese Christian wife a “safe location.” and mother Meriam The very next day, June 24, Ibrahim Yahya, 27, who Meriam and Daniel and the was sentenced to death children were detained at the by hanging for refusing Khartoum Airport by some 40 Sto give up her Christian faith, is agents of the dreaded Sudan no longer in prison. But she is still National Intelligence and in danger in Sudan. Security Service (NISS) while As we celebrate our trying to leave the country. Independence Day and thank Meriam was charged God for the freedom we enjoy with attempting to use false and those who made it possible, documents. (The South Sudan we must continue to fight for emergency travel document she Meriam’s freedom and defend was carrying was provided to her her right to come to the United by the U.S. State Department, States with her South Sudanese along with a visa for the U.S.) American citizen husband, Daniel LETTER This charge could carry a 7 year Wani, and their two little children. FROM sentence. Our sister Meriam’s road has After holding Meriam and the been an extremely rough one, USA family for some hours, they were with many uphill climbs and With Faith released when a brave young unexpected turns, but the Lord Sudanese Muslim supporter of has been with her through it all. McDonnell freedom posted Meriam’s bail. On May 27, 2014, daughter The U.S. Embassy now has them Maya was born to Meriam to the United States and get expert under protection and states that and Daniel in the Omdurman medical care for Maya, the better. it is working with the Sudanese Women’s Prison in Khartoum, In the meantime, let us pray for government to get them out of the Sudan. This was where Meriam complete healing for this baby. Pray country and on to the U.S. They was incarcerated, and at the time that GOD will strengthen Maya’s need to work hard and they need - sentenced to death for apostasy legs, straighten anything that is to work fast. Not only is Meriam and to 100 lashes for the crime crooked, bring His power into every still vulnerable to the radical of adultery. (Sudan’s Sharia court muscle, bone, tendon, vein, and blood Islamists, including her own self- considers her a Muslim, and cell in those little legs, and heal her. identified “brother,” but Maya Muslim women are banned from should be receiving medical care. marrying Christian men.) The appeal and the aftermath When this courageous This little girl, probably On Monday, June 23, 2014, woman was sentenced to death the only U.S. citizen born in a the Appeals Court in Khartoum for apostasy, she was given Sudanese prison, joined her big overturned the decision of the Shariah three days by the Shariah judge brother, Martin, aged 20 months. court that had condemned Meriam to “repent” and renounce her Martin, also the child of U.S. and cleared her of all charges. She Christian faith. But Meriam said citizen Daniel, was in prison with was released from prison and taken to no. She told the judge, “I am a his mother the whole time that Christian, and I will remain a Meriam was incarcerated. The Christian.” Even in a country Sharia court would not allow When this courageous with no religious freedom, Daniel to have custody of them woman was sentenced Meriam has inspired thousands because he is a Christian. by defying Shariah and its claims Meriam was kept in shackles to death for apostasy, to her body, mind, and spirit! while giving birth, with chains she was given three days She has encouraged the people limiting her feet to a very short of Sudan who believe in freedom distance apart. We received the by the Shariah judge to and democracy by opening her heartbreaking news this week “repent” and renounce mouth and speaking truth. that because of these egregious Will you open your mouth conditions for laboUr, Maya her Christian faith. But and speak for Meriam? may be permanently disabled. In Meriam said no. She a CNN interview, Meriam and Daniel revealed that doctors do told the judge, “I am a The writer is the Director of not know if she will be able to Christian, and I will remain Religious Liberty, Institute on walk unassisted. The sooner the Religion and Democracy, Wash- family can get out of Khartoum a Christian.” ington DC.

18 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Commentaries TCT paganda against each other, to give unrestricted humanitarian access to Third independence people affected by conflict, embark on an inclusive peace process, and the for- mation of a Transitional Government of anniversary: What National Unity within sixty days. However, within a week after the makes it gloomy? meeting of the two SPLM rivals, new By Mapuor Malual setbacks emerged. The government he Republic of South Su- delegation suspended its participation dan marks its 3rd indepen- in the peace talks for few days when dence birthday on July 9, IGAD Executive Secretary, Amb. while its citizens are mired Mahboub Maalim allegedly referred to in a vicious civil war fol- President Kiir and Dr. Machar as “stu- Tlowing violence that broke out last pid” if they thought they would win December, pitting loyalist soldiers sup- the war in the frontlines. The govern- porting President Salva Kiir against ment backed down later and allowed its pro-Machar faction of the elite Repub- delegation to return to the negotiating lican Guard, accused of an attempted table. But the rebels boycotted the talks coup. This set off the rebellion being because they accused the mediators of led by former vice President, Dr. Riek being biased against them during the Machar. selection of stakeholders, particularly Unlike previous independence an- the civil society groups. Consequently, niversaries, the 2014 celebrations are ing task of nation building while at the peace talks have stalled; and the gloomy and unfortunately boring. This the same time holding at bay, the tra- 10th August deadline for a transitional year commemorations came at time ditional enemy of South Sudan which government to be in place is increas- when the country is highly embroiled is non other than Sudan. This was the ingly unrealistic. in bitter conflict that started as politi- early stage of shifting disputes from an In its latest report on July 8 titled, cal rivalry within the ruling Sudan Peo- external common enemy to the internal Conflict Alert: Halting South Sudan’s ples’ Liberation Movement (SPLM) front. Spreading Civil War, the International before degenerating into a full blown The divisions that have been quietly Crisis Group highlighted that the three civil war with ethnic undertones. The plaguing the SPLM took center-stage cessation of hostilities agreements have celebrations are overshadowed by a of the politics of the young nation. failed to halt the war, and time is of the situation where thousands of South Su- Barely two years after secession, dif- essence to expand the current process danese will mark the anniversary in UN ferences between Kiir and his then vice to address existing and future chal- or refugee camps. And of course, some president, Dr. Riek Machar, erupted lenges. The government is borrowing other groups may celebrate the day in into all-out conflict, with both of them heavily against oil futures to fund the their trenches. claiming to represent the SPLM. war, its troops are often unpaid, and With the birth of the republic of Since last December, when Kiir thousands have deserted the national South Sudan on July 9, 2011 when its accused Dr. Machar of beng behind a army. Any transitional government will citizens resoundingly voted for sepa- failed coup attempt, the country has inherit a bankrupt state. The report also ration from the North, the world wel- been shaken by violence. The conflict raised the question of “who is funding comed the youngest nation in East Af- has already claimed more than 10,000 and arming the opposition and how this rica with spectacular pomp and fanfare, lives, with the UN estimating that some outside support may be undermining hoping that it would end the long suf- one million South Sudanese have al- mediation efforts”. rd ferings and war in Sudan, especially the ready been displaced by the ongoing As South Sudanese celebrate 3 in- suffering of the downtrodden people of turmoil. Majority of Internally Dis- dependence anniversary of their coun- the then Southern Sudan. The people placed Persons (IDPs) are housed in try in amidst deep political and ethnic of this region fought two long bitter United Nations Mission in South Su- divisions, the question that needs to be civil wars of independence (between dan (UNMISS) camps across the coun- answered is this: what went wrong after 1955-1971 and 1983-2005), with vari- try. These camps, whether in UNMISS July 09, 2011? Are South Sudanese an- ous successive oppressive regimes in compounds or refugee camps, are in archists or unable to govern themselves Khartoum, Sudan. South Sudan’s rul- their squalid conditions with threats of as per the claim of Arabs of Sudan? Is ing Sudan People’s Liberation Move- flood and diseases like malaria, typhoid it a result of bad governance or wrong ment (SPLM) party through its armed and cholera visible. system of governance? wing, the SPLA, led the struggle that The South Sudanese themselves ended with a 2005 peace treaty that ul- New setbacks must take the lead in finding answers timately led to South Sudan’s secession Last June, the two principals met to the above questions. In other words, from Sudan. in Addis Ababa under the auspices of the fairer settlement of the current con- But a few months after hoisting its regional Inter-Governmental Authority flict shall come from the South Suda- flag in Juba, the euphoria of indepen- for Development (IGAD) where they nese themselves. All foreigners that are dence celebrations began to wane as pledged to recommit themselves to the hovering in Addis Ababa and Juba are the young nation entered a new page; a two previous signed peace deals, which there to push their national interests phase of reality of nation building, ser- were expected to end the conflict. Under down our throats. vice delivery, and protection of territo- this deal, the government of the repub- rial sovereignty of its hard won nation lic of South Sudan and rebel’s Sudan The author is journalist, blogger, po- began. There emerged the question of Peoples’ Liberation Army/Movement litical and social commentator based who is capable to run the new nation in Opposition (SPLA/M-O) agreed to in Juba. He can be reached at mapuo- and effectively undertake the daunt- cease hostilities including media pro- [email protected] THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 19 TCT Regional News n a bid to reduce the glar- ing rates of child and maternal deaths annually es- Sub-Sahara timated at 6.6 million and 260,000 respectively, Sub ISaharan-African states are set to launch a mobile phone text mes- countries launch saging service to educate masses on better health care and nutrition. The initiative dubbed pan-Af- initiative to curb rican mHealth Initiative (PAMI) is supported by GSMA and is in line with the UN’s ‘Every Women infant and maternal Every Child Gobal Strategy’ and the ‘Global Nutrition for Growth Compact’. The proponents of the project aim to leverage on the deaths high mobile phone penetration to reach out to the targeted audience to ultimately improve health. As a result, GSMA has part- nered with the global digital security service provider Gemalto to achieve this goal. According to statistics from GSMA, Africa’s mobile phone penetration in 2013 was at over 80 percent with Sub- Saharan Africa leading the pack with its unique mobile subscriber base growing by 18 per cent annually over the last five years, making it the fastest growing region globally. According to GSMA, PAMI brings together stakeholders from the mobile and health industries, as well as from the public sector. The project will leverage a wide range of communications products, solutions and infrastructures to deliver sustainable and effec- tive mHealth support that meets the needs of over 15 million preg- nant women and mothers with children under five years old. The UN Secretary General in an earlier interview while launch- ing the ‘United Nations Every Women Every Child Global Strat- Uganda and Zambia) in Septem- mortality between 1990 and 2013 egy’ and the ‘Global Nutrition for ber 2014, extending to a further shows that sub-Saharan Africa ac- Growth Compact’ explained, “Re- four (Kenya, Malawi, Mozam- counted for 6,800 (91 per cent) search has conclusively demon- bique and Tanzania) in early 2015. of the estimated 7,500 maternal strated that the health of women Gemalto will help bring deaths on the continent and this and children is the cornerstone of mHealth and nutrition services to also emphasize the area of focus public health. Healthy women and the masses dynamically through of the project. children create healthy societies. its advanced Smart Message in- According to GSMA, the suc- Healthy societies, in turn are the teractive messaging solution, le- cess of the project is intertwined foundation upon which nations veraging its existing relationships with the millenium development build successful economies and with mobile operators across the goals which aim to save the lives create prosperity for their people region. The aim is to simplify the of over 16 million women and which is essential to political sta- relationships between patients children, preventing 33 million bility and social harmony.” and health stakeholders to deliver unwanted pregnancies, ending The first phase of the initia- targeted nutritional and health ad- stunting in 88 million children tive will be launched across seven vice via mobile phones. and protecting 120 million chil- countries (Ivory Coast, Ghana, The World Health Organisa- dren from pneumonia. Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, tion report on trends in maternal (AMA) 20 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Regional News TCT Sudan to reject new church construction permits

The remains of a church that was demolished by Sudanese authorities in Khartoum: The government says it will no longer issue permits for building of new churches in Sudan (Radio Tamazuj). he Sudanese Minister country where the majority of its authorities recently. of Guidance and people are Christians, while the On 1 July, Sudanese Religious Endowments number of Christians in Sudan is authorities bulldozed the has announced that the small. Sudanese Christ Church at El T Izba residential area (Tayibat El government will never give new Reacting to the news, Rev. Kori permits for the building of new El Ramli, the Secretary-General Ahamda) block 19 in Khartoum churches in the country. Sudanese of Sudan Council of Churches told North. Christian leaders reacted by Radio Tamazuj the statement made For his part, Kuwa Shamal criticizing the statement. by the minister contradicts the Kuku, the bishop of the Minister Shalil Abdullah told country’s constitution. demolished church, expressed the Khartoum-based El Jerida “Yes, we are a minority, but we his discontent about the move, newspaper recently that the have freedom of worship and belief saying the church was destroyed existing churches are enough for just like the rest of the Sudanese as completely by the government the Christians remaining in Sudan long as we are Sudanese nationals under the pretext of protecting the after the secession of South Sudan like them,” he explained. land. in 2011. The pastor also criticized The priest told Radio Tamazuj He pointed out that South the demolotion of a church in a that the bulldozed church was Sudan became an independent suburb of Khartoum North by local built in 1983. Christians in Sudan treated as second class citizens - Bishop Catholic priest has ex- divine service unmolested, but there pressed concern about is no genuine freedom of religion the mistreatment of and conscience in the country. This Christians in Sudan since is illustrated by the disgraceful case South Sudan’s indepen- of Meriam Yahia Ibrahim Ishaq, dence.A which, unlike any other, has been Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala widely publicised. (pictured)of the diocese of Tombura- “This 27-year-old Sudanese Yambio in South Sudan says the legal woman, the daughter of a Muslim situation of Christians in Sudan is man and an Orthodox Christian was different: “When we confront worrying. The bishop said this when woman, was arrested in May and those in charge with this, they em- he recently visited the headquarters initially condemned to death for phasise that Christians have the of the International Catholic Charity “apostasy,” Bishop Kussala said. same rights as their compatriots, but Aid to the Church in Need. “Among those around her she this changes nothing in legal terms. “In Sudan, bishops and priests had long been known as a Chris- “Bishops and priests are not have been living de facto as illegals tian. For whatever motives, she was granted passports and they do not since South Sudan’s independence,” blackmailed and then charged. The have legal status. They are able to bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala told government expressed no view on leave the country but re-entry may Church In Need. the matter and simply left it all to the be refused. Priests have already been The cleric added that Sudan’s Islamic clerics,” he added. expelled and the bishops are con- constitution did guarantee all citi- The accusation of apostasy was demned to remain silent,” Bishop zens equal rights regardless of their leveled at her because Meriam Isaq’s Kussala claimed. religious affiliation, but the reality father is a Muslim. (CISA) “Christians in Sudan can attend THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 21 TCT Business News Vivacell appoints new managing director elecommunications Mr. Saade earned his company Vivacell Master’s from University TSouth Sudan has an- of Lowell, Massachu- nounced the appointment of setts, and has a wealth of Mr. Joseph Saade as Manag- international experience, ing Director. In a statement which will contribute to to the media, the company ensure that Vivacell con- says that Mr. Saade brings tinues to be the leading with him over 30 years of ex- Mobile Operator in South perience in establishing and Sudan, says Vivacell. managing diverse businesses, Vivacell is one of including telecommunication the telecommunications companies and Internet Ser- companies in the coun- vice Providers. try which was reported Prior to joining Vivacell, to have a coverage of a Mr. Saade started Transtrum, million people by 2009. A turnkey connectivity solu- It is one of four GSM tions and service provider mobile network opera- and a leading telecommuni- tors licensed to operate in cation services company, ris- Southern Sudan but was ing to the position of General the first to be headquar- Manager. tered inside Southern A statement from Vivacell Sudan. Vivacell is part of says that Transtrum success- the Fattouch Investment fully and profitably entered Group from Lebanon. the Middle East and African The other GSM com- markets, gaining outstanding panies in the country are international recognition in a Mr. Joseph Saade: Appointed the new managing director MTN, Zain and Gemtel. record time. for Vivacell, South Sudan. Specialized in:

• Spray Painting • Panel Beating • Engine Overhaul • Suspension • Service • Among Others

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22 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Business News TCT Prices shoot up as Tonj town is cut off by bad roads

Heavy rains have caused damage to roads in Tonj, cutting off the town from the rest of the country, as a result causing a rise in the price of commodities in Tonj South County.

he prices of essential com- services have halted”, the commis- of infrastructure. And I hope they modities have risen up in Tonj sioner said. should either find a solution for this Ttown as a result of impassable Tonj lies approximately 153 or forward it to the national govern- roads due to heavy rains, which has kilometers northwest of Rumbek and ment because the issue of roads made it impossible for transporters around 108 kilometers southeast of construction is not the capacity of to reach the town. This is according Wau. Commissioner Wol explained county administration,” he said. to Gurtong. that the town usually gets com- He added that his local adminis- Tonj town, which is in Warrap mercial commodities from Juba via tration had in recent weeks collected State, was last week cut off from the Rumbek. He added that the bad funds to mend the Wau - Tonj road. rest of the country due to damage roads had forced the divertion of Despite their efforts to fill potholes to feeder roads into the town. Tonj goods to Wau through Mvolo County, with large stones, he said, large South County Commissioner Mr. in the neighbouring Western Equato- trucks displace the stones, and cars William Wol said the situation was ria State, instead of coming through continue to overturn. very serious and requires an urgent Tonj town. Nine years after the end of the response from the concerned author- Rumbek, Tonj and Wau towns are war with Sudan and almost three ities, so that the county’s citizens can connected to Juba by murram roads years after independence, South receive government services and the constructed several years ago, which Sudan is still barely connected with town can be supplied with essential are in need of maintenance and, itself. The fresh outbreak of armed goods. eventually, tarmacking. These roads civil conflict has further damaged “Now in Tonj South County, the have now become impassable, with an already weak economy which issue of roads is the major problem. water pools and potholes causing depends on oil income for over 98% We are disconnected from any neigh- vehicles to overturn or to get stuck on of its budget. Infrastructure develop- bouring towns. Our roads are not the road, said the Commissioner. ment has been badly affected. functional and therefore the prices in “I have already filed the report (Original story by Gurtong. Edit- the market are high and the transport about bad roads to the state ministry ing by TCT) For News, Views, Commentaries and Advertising call: Tel: Office +211 (0) 921 226 802, +211 (0) 955 486 861 Sales &Marketing: +211 (0) 956 703 452, 095622003, 0955017617 E-mail: [email protected] www.thechristiantimes.net

Circulation Across South Sudan. THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 23 TCT Features We feel happy about our country despite the challenges we are facing By Moses Wasamu

On the occasion of celebrating the third independence for South Sudan, The Christian Times spoke with two South Sudanese, Sunday Aggrey Jaden and Stephen Doctor Matatia, who were attending a training in Nairobi, Kenya, about their views on the country, especially now that there is a political crisis, and the challenges they face as senior government officials. Sunday is the Acting Director General for Human Resource Development while Matatia is the Director Sunday Aggrey Jaden Stephen Doctor Matatia General for External Trade. we need to reconcile and forgive each be able to gather experience and other. Revenging will not bring back rise up through the ranks…Such staff The Christian Times: What is your the people who died…we need to agree will be able to address some of the feeling now when South Sudan is rd that we are one nation, and learn from emerging issues that are cropping up celebrating its 3 independence the example of the Rwandese who have currently anniversary? learned from what happened in their country… we need to identify ourselves SAJ: Medical training and teaching Stephen Doctor Matatia: I feel as South Sudanese. should be given priority…The happy because we have started government needs to invest in higher to count the age of our country… They (Rwanda) had a people-driven education and skills-based training. we are a free and independent peace process, where they come Right now our human resource country…we are enjoying the fruits together and talk and there is a lot of capacity is estimated at 30%. The of independence. It is meaningful happiness, and truth-telling, to bring government is going to carry out a to be independent because of the peace and reconciliation. The peace skills audit after which we will have packages that are attached to it, like committee in South Sudan (National a clear picture. The World Bank will freedom of speech and freedom of Peace Committee) should go to the support the audit. movement, we can now acquire visas communities and talk to people to easily in Juba without anyone asking forgive and to reconcile. TCT to SDM: Which areas need to us questions unlike previously when be given priority in the department we had to get them in Khartoum… TCT to SAJ: How has the crisis (external trade)? in Khartoum it was not easy to get a affected human resource visa. development in the country? A country without trade is weak…we need to strengthen the capacity of We are happy because we are free, SAJ: The crisis has affected the the department (of external trade). there is more interaction with training of human resource for the A country must produce quality goods other countries and we can join civil service…Some donors who were for local and overseas markets… other regional and international ready to support the training of civil We must only import that which is organizations and confederations. servants went away when the violence not locally available…We must also broke out…Some consultants that we export to get foreign currency…Right Sunday Aggrey Jaden: I am happy, were working with are not able to now, our imports are more than our despite the crisis we have, people come back to help develop our human exports! Our economy is one-sided. celebrated in the country, I am happy resources …We have other issues with We must produce quality goods… with the president’s speech that he is our human resource…most of them have The government should also prepare ready to go for negotiations (with his problems communicating in English the ground necessary for producers rival Dr. Riek Machar)…and we pray and we need to have English language to produce….Since our economy is that peace will prevail. training for them….We have short-term agro-based, leaders should invest trainings but long term trainings would more in agriculture…The government TCT: What needs to be done to be much better…We are glad that the should facilitate agriculture through bring lasting peace to South Sudan? government of Ethiopia is sponsoring policy, giving agricultural loans, some long-term trainings. allowing banks to finance agricultural SDM: We need a people-driven peace schemes, and provide machinery…. process. The people should support TCT: Which areas need to be given We must clearly identify what to the government and realize that no priority in human resource capacity produce and which markets to one gains in war…The government development? produce for…We must improve should allow the civil society security, roads, bridges, and build (including churches and community- SDM: The government should influence silos to international standards…For based organisations), to drive the professionals to come back home many years we have been sensitized peace process. and encourage them to stay…The on operations of the cooperative government needs to recruit young movement only…We need now to give SAJ: We have a lot of differences and graduates with qualifications and post priority to the practice of internal we need peace among ourselves… in the right places…That way they will and external trade.

24 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Features TCT Peter’s story: ‘This must be God’s plan that we should meet again’ bade my wife, Nyabile, and infant The driver had insisted son farewell on 10th December they must continue 2013, and left them in the care of the journey. Eventu- my nephew and niece, both univer- ally they were released sity students. I was due to return in at 8pm. They were in one week. I had joined UNHCR as a Nadapal. The next day Iprotection associate in Bor, capital of a UNHCR colleague, Jonglei state, less than three months Chris, telephoned me before. Shortly thereafter, Nyabile and from Kakuma. He put I were blessed with the birth of our Nyabile on the phone. I first child, Dinai. Life was good. was overjoyed. My wife I flew to Ayod some 200km north and baby were safe in a of Bor to conduct training in preven- refugee camp in Kenya.I Peter visiting Ethiopian refugees who were returning tion and response to gender-based home. Photo by T. Ongaro/2014 decided to make my violence. Before joining UNHCR, I had It was the only hope for my family. way to my home area of Akobo to the worked with an NGO as protection I was stranded in Ayod. UN aircraft east of Ayod near the border with coordinator. I handled numerous cases were prohibited from flying. UN Rules Ethiopia. An eight day walk with total involving female survivors of rape. I forbade me to travel by road. It was strangers lay ahead. I had no alterna- would put myself in their shoes and too risky. The war was spreading. I only tive. I prayed only that I would see my reassure them it was not their fault, had my mobile phone and my laptop to family again. We walked at night by that they should not feel guilty. I would connect me with the outside world. At the light of the full moon. At day- take them to hospital for treatment to the NGO compound where I was staying time, rather than risk dehydration and prevent pregnancy as well as infection solar technology ensured electricity at certain death, we rested under tree through HIV and sexually transmitted all times, and fortunately the mobile shades away from the oppressive heat. diseases. As a graduate of law at John network functioned. We drank water from stagnant pools. I Garang Memorial University in Bor, my Two weeks later with the assis- cupped my hands and drank through my main concern was that survivors should tance of my UNHCR colleagues in Bor t-shirt. I prayed I would not fall sick. receive justice. For this we brought and Juba, Nyabile was evacuated by My parched throat hurt badly as I swal- cases to the national police. air from Bor with our son, my niece lowed. I coughed blood. I wondered if I My mission to Ayod went ahead as and other dependents of UN staff. My would make it. planned. I trained Government and nephew had to stay behind; it was too By God’s grace, I reached Akobo to- NGO medical personnel to deal with dangerous for an adult male to leave tally exhausted from the arduous walk. survivors of rape and other forms of the UN Base in Bor. I was desperate for I collapsed on the floor at my cousin’s violence. I taught members of the my family to leave the country. The house, aching all over. I was feverish Ayod County Youth Association and security situation was worsening. The and somewhat delirious. After a day’s women’s groups to support survivors war’s tribal character was now undeni- rest I went to an Internet café to check and encouraged them to report inci- able. Youth had joined the fray. my email and charge my phone. There dents and seek help.I was still in Ayod The UN Base in Juba where my fam- was a message from Chris. He had when clashes erupted in Juba on 15 ily had moved was overcrowded. Condi- sent a photo of Nyabile and Dinai in December. Full scale combat had flared tions were filthy and inappropriate Kakuma. My spirits soared and in that up among the ranks of our country’s for the baby. Friends and colleagues moment I found the strength to keep military. I received the alarming news came to the rescue and collected $300 going.Later I traveled to Gambella, by telephone. On 17 December, the to rent a vehicle to take my family to Addis Ababa, Nairobi, and eventually to day I was to have returned, similar Nadapal, on South Sudan’s border with Kakuma. My wife, my niece and I wept clashes erupted in Bor with unimagi- Kenya.They left Juba on 31 December. for joy. We had feared we would never nable ferocity. I was afraid. No-one was Except for the driver and Dinai, all the see each other again. We wept for the safe. I knew civilians had sought refuge passengers were women. I telephoned tragedy that had befallen our country. I at the UN Base in Juba. I telephoned at short intervals, monitoring their picked up Dinai. I held him close to me. Nyabile and told her to leave every- progress. Then I lost contact with Nya- I was so excited. I played with my son, thing and move to the UN Base in Bor. bile. Fear gripped me. I imagined the my baby, thinking, “This must be God’s worst. I tried not to think plan that we should meet again.” of the many survivors I am forever indebted to all those of rape that I had dealt who helped me during the night- with in my work. For nine mare episode that followed. They agonizing hours, I prayed telephoned every day, and sent me as I dialed and redialed messages of encouragement. They sent my phone. me credit for my phone and lent me The call finally went money, trusting my word that I would through at 2am. “Are you repay them. My present and former alive?” is how I greeted colleagues as well as my kin brought my wife. They were un- my family to safety. Every step of my harmed. Armed men had journey was made possible by people’s stopped them as darkness humanity. If it wasn’t for their kind- was falling, searched the ness, I would have lost my mind. Peter visiting Ethiopian refugees who were returning vehicle and ordered them home. Photo by T. Ongaro/2014 to stay put for the night. (UNHCR) THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 25 TCT Health Blood transfusion centre opens in Juba resident Salva Kiir Mayardit yesterday opened the Blood Transfusion Service Centre and the National and Regional Public Health Laboratories in PJuba, built at a cost of $1.5m. The Blood Transfusion Service Centre and the two laboratories are the first national and regional labs constructed in the country, through the support of United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global fund. The laboratories are expected to significantly improve the country’s diagnosis and disease surveillance for HIV/AIDS, TB, Malaria, tropical diseases and epidemic diseases such as cholera. This is part of efforts to strengthen the health system in South Sudan. Also present during the occasion was the minister for health, Dr. Riak Gai, UNDP Country Director Mr. Mulugeta Abebe, and Ms. Marion Gleixner, Global Fund Portfolio Manager for South Sudan, among other guests and health stakeholders. Mr. Mulugeta said the new facilities will touch and directly improve human development outcomes in many ways. “With the opening of the Blood Transfusion Centre, the lives of the people of Juba and the neighbouring areas supported by the Centre will get safer and better,” he said while addressing the gathering. Safe blood supply is critical for fighting HIV, which is still a major cause of death in the country. An adequate and safe blood supply would also help address an important cause of maternal mortality, a vital goal of the ministry of health, he said. He told the gathering that the Global Fund has committed additional funds for the completion of interior works of TB and HIV labs of the National Reference Lab, and that Global Fund resources have also been utilized to further strengthen the infrastructure of Blood Transfusion Services in Wau and Malakal. Three major reference laboratories and 5 state laboratories have also been constructed to support the medical laboratory network in the country. Mr. Mulugeta promised that UNDP South Sudan remains committed to providing continued (Above) A lab technician works inside one of the labs at the National assistance to strengthen and and Regional Public Health Laboratories that were recently opened accelerate the ministry of health’s by President Salva Kiir in Juba. (Inset Below) President Kiir (centre), achievements in health and in cutting the ribbon to officially open the National Blood Transfusion Centre in Juba (UNDP). improving human lives.

26 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Health TCT Juba launches clean-up campaign By TCT correspondent he governor of Central Equitoria, Clement Wani Konga, and the mayor of Juba, Christopher Sara- Tfino Wani, joined other citizens of Juba early in the week in a clean-up exercise that will run for the next one month. The ‘Keep Juba Clean and Green’ campaign is an initiative that is aimed at helping to prevent recurrent disease outbreaks related to poor water and sanitation, such as the current Cholera outbreak. The Chol- era outbreak was declared in mid-May and has not subsided. Though initially largely confined to Juba County, latest reports from aid agencies indicate that the disease has spread, with outbreaks reported in nine of 10 states. As of 2 July, 2,613 cases had been reported, with 63 deaths. The outbreak was spreading fast in Torit, the state capital of Children pushing wheel-barrows as they help to clean up the streets of Eastern Equatoria State. Juba during the launch of the clean-up campaign in the city (UNDP). A major Cholera alert was issued by health partners in Wau Shilluk, Upper Nile State, where 246 suspected cases, including seven deaths, have been reported. Eleven suspected cases were also reported in the UN base in Bentiu, where poor sani- tary conditions increased the risk of the disease spreading The public has been urged to support the initiative by keeping the city clean by stopping open defecation, properly dis- posing domestic waste, plastic bottles, plastic bags and other trash at designated points. Members of the public have also been asked to keep water sources safe for a healthier community. The clean-up initiative is supported by UNICEF, which provided protective gear, tools, garbage bags, renting garbage trucks and funding to conduct community meetings and development of communication materials and messages on keeping our communities clean. UNICEF Deputy Representative in the country, Ettie Higgins, also participated in the keep Juba clean and green campaign. Others were Juba city council workers, children and other residents of the city. Cholera is an extremely dangerous disease which affects both children and adults and can kill within hours if it is un- treated. It is characterized by sudden onset of profuse, watery diarrhoea without fever or abdominal cramps. The stool of cholera patients typically becomes a clear liquid flecked with white mucus, known as “rice- water” stool. It is usually odourless or has a mild fishy smell. Vomiting, which can be severe, and painful leg cramps are also common symptoms.

THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 27 TCT Migration/Refugee News South Sudanese refugees in Uganda trained on rice farming By TCT correspondent ore than 30 South Su- danese refugee farmers were recently M trained on cultivation of rice in Adjumani district, northern Uganda. The training took place at a Farmers’ Field School (FFS). The training comes at a crucial time of the second annual planting season in northern Ugan- da, and it is meant to help boost food security in the local community, where the refugees have settled. Adjumani has received the largest number of South Suda- South Sudanese refugee farmers being trained on cultivation of rice in Adjumani nese refugees since violence broke district, northern Uganda. out in the country late last year. The number has reached almost to improve food security through ties. At the end of the training, the 90,000, with a new group of more technical assistance, especially on PRiDe project provided each refu- than 75,000 persons who arrived rice. They have done this through gee farmer with one kilogram of in late December and early this the Promotion of Rice Develop- the NERICA 4 rice seed. year. If the numbers keep increas- ment (PRiDe) project, which has Using the technique, each ing, the food security of the host been implemented since 2011, to farmer can harvest 50 kilograms community may be seriously af- increase household income and of rice from one kilogramme of fected. food security. It promotes better seeds. For continuity, each farmer With this in mind, Japan In- cultivation techniques for NERI- is expected to donate the produced ternational Cooperation Agency CA (New Rice for Africa), a rice rice seeds to other farmers to en- (JICA) and the United Nations variety that does well in the local able them adopt the new crop and High Commissioner for Refugees environment. farming techniques. (UNHCR) organized the training The project has trained more Thus, refugee farmers from to support the livelihood of the than 13,000 extension workers South Sudan are expected to im- host communities to enhance their and farmers for the dissemina- prove their own livelihood through self-reliance and resilience. tion of new farming techniques. rice production and contribute to JICA has supported the gov- The project has been expanded to improving food security of the ernment of Uganda in its efforts also target refugee host communi- host community.

28 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Religious News TCT Committee for NatioNal HealiNg, PeaCe aNd reCoNCiliatioN (CNHPr)

“...Our people have suffered enough... it is high time we give peace a chance for the sake of our children...”

“ ...We the Committee for National Healing, Peace and Reconciliation (CNHPR) proclaim that we are one nation, one people, one country, lets not give a chance to conflict...”.

“...Time is not Please engage with us or visit our offices on our side. Now Juba, South Sudan Telepho,l;ne: 0921037248 is the time for E-mail: [email protected] peace....” http://reconciliationsouthsudan.org

CNHPR is guided by the following core values: i) Pluralism, ii) Inclusivity, iii) Peacemaking, iv) Social Justice, v) Forgiveness, vi) Healing, vii) Atonement, and viii) Sovereignty.

THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 29 TCT Be Inspired/Sermon Only reconciliation of top SPLM leadership will end war Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he (she) is a new creation; because both men, Kiir and Machar, know the meaning of reconciliation the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, from their Christian faith and their who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the African traditional backgrounds. Ministry of Reconciliation; that God was reconciling the world Particularly, there is a reconciliation process in Nuer and Dinka traditional to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. way of life. However, this may be And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. different from the Christian faith. Therefore we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his The term reconciliation is a appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf; be Biblical term. Its meaning is rooted in the writings of St. Paul. In his reconciled to God”. (2Cor 5:17 – 20 NIV). letters, there are 12 books/letters he heart of this elected them at the rate of 97% with references to reconciliation. paper is the need in the election in 2011. Now their Generally, reconciliation means for reconciliation destruction, death and displacement restoration of broken relationships between the top must be both frustrating and heart between two or more people who leaders of Sudan bleeding for President Salva Kiir. previously had good and friendly TPeople’s Liberation Movement What can he do to stop the war relations. When the broken relations (SPLM), with special reference which is killing innocent people? are restored, these people become to the current President Salva Since he is the elected president friends again. They eat together, Kiir Mayardit, and his former and is in control of major parts of they share ideas and life goes on Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar the country and his party, he can peacefully between them. The enmity Teny, who is now the leader of do more for his people. The first which existed between them will the rebel group that is fighting the government of South Sudan. Dr. Riek was part of the SPLM political party until December 2013. That was when the conflict which became a national civil war began. Reconciliation between them is essential for ending SPLM’s war. The restoration of the broken relationships between them is critical simply because the war that broke out in Juba on December 15, 2013 was in truth SPLM’s war. And the President and his former Vice President are the top leaders of each side of the conflict. If we want the war thing he should do is to bring peace, disappear. Their wives, relatives near to end, the top leaders of SPLM unity, and development to the people and far, and children become friends in the cities and in the bush must of South Sudan who made him again. This aspect of reconciliation be involved in the process of president. He needs to gather courage is slightly different from the Biblical stopping the war and finding a and have direct reconciliatory talks point of view in which it was God peaceful solution. They must be with his former vice president who initiated the reconciliation. On reconciled. who is now in the bush. In my the other hand, reconciliation does The war which is currently view, President Kiir needs to seek not walk by itself or in isolation. It is taking place in South Sudan is reconciliation between him and Dr. always acompanied by repentance, meaningles. It will not benefit Machar. Their reconciliation will forgiveness, peace, prayer and the people of South Sudan or end the war and save their people, the unity. Let us turn to what the Bible even the supporters of either electorate. What is the nature of this says about restoration of broken leader. The war has already reconciliation? relationship. brought destruction, death, and Reconciliation defined From the Biblical perspective, displacement to the people. Before proceeding further with restoration of broken relationships These people, who are now the discussion, it is useful to define between God, and Adam and Eve suffering, are the people of both the meaning of reconciliation. This were restored by God himself through leaders, Kiir and Machar. They is merely a matter of clarification Jesus Christ. The story about how

30 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Be Inspired/Sermon TCT mankind disobeyed God is found in Garang, the founder of SPLA\M. said, «I am against the shepherds Genesis 3:1-24. However, it was God That reconciliation took place in and I will hold them accountable against whom humankind sinned that Rumbek in 2004. It resulted in the for my flock (people). I will required action to reconcile mankind appointment of four Generals: Gen. remove them from tending the to God because man/woman didn’t Kiir was appointed to the position flock so that the shepherds can have power to return to God. So, of Vice Chair Person of SPLA\M, no longer feed themselves. I God initiated the steps to reconcile Gen. James Wani Igga, Gen. Dr. will rescue my flock from their humankind to himself. The action of Riek Machar, and Gen. Dr. Lam mouths and it will no longer God is stated clearly by Apostle Paul Akol Ajawin became governors of be food for them...I will judge when he said, “Therefore, if anyone the three states of Equatoria, Upper between one sheep and another. is in Christ he (she) is a new creation; Nile and Bhar-El-Ghazal. If they had I will place over them one the old has gone, the new has come! not been reconciled with Dr. John shepherd, my Servant David, and All this is from God who reconciled Garang, the CPA would have not he will tend them and be their us to himself through Christ and gave been successfully negotiated. That shepherd. I the Lord will be us the ministry of reconciliation.” they are the product of reconciliation their God, and my Servant David (2Cor. 5:17-19). As we see, the is the most impotant thing they will be prince (leader) among reconciliation between humankind should remember in their lives. them. I the Lord have spoken.» and God is initiated by God, the most However , as Christians, Kiir (Ezekiel:34:10,22,24). powerful one. Seen from the action and Machar have knowledge about The fear of the Lord is the of God through Christ, reconciliation what God expects in dealing with beginning of wisdom (Proverbs restores broken relationships between the problems of the oppressed 1:7). God can remove the warring God and humankind. God, the most and suffering people. God always leaders of South Sudan and powerful, carried out restoration of intervenes on behalf of the suffering. replace them with honest, elected relationships, between himself and Two examples illustrate God›s leaders, who will respect human mankind. rights and Biblical values such Hence, reconciliation between the Reconciliation between as justice, equality, freedom, elected president and his former vice honesty and accountability. president will restore harmonious the elected president This is how God, our relationships which existed between and his former vice creator deals with the problems them before the tension developed. of the oppressed people. He The creation of harmonious relations president will restore intervenes in their affairs to end between the two top leaders will end their suffering. He removes the the SPLM›s war. harmonious relationships oppressors and establishes peace, On December 15, 2013 in Juba which existed between order and stability. He will do so at 10:00 p.m. on Sunday night, it in South Sudan so that the the was reported that 500 soldiers were them before the tension people can return to their homes killed and quickly buried. However, developed. The creation and live peaceful lives. the war did not stop in Juba. With the In the light of God›s possible speed of lightning, war swept through of harmonious relations intervention to save the people Greater Upper Nile. It destroyed of South Sudan, Kiir and Machar everything in its path. Military between the two top must reconcile as soon as victory, sanctions, nor peacekeeping leaders will end the possible. Yet, their reconciliation forces from UN or IGAD cannot will not be an easy job. It is going end this war. The suggestion of the SPLM›s war. to take hard work by South Sudan current vice president that rebels put concerns about the suffering of our Council of Churches, the IGAD, down their arms and return home is oppressed people. This first example and the international community not credible but political rhetoric. comes from the book of Exodus. to persuade them to think The rebels will not put down their This example deals with the question seriously about peaceful solutions arms.The only way of ending the war of people of Israel when they were of the conflict. Reconciliation is through reconciliation between in Egypt and oppressed by the rather than a military victory is the president and his former vice Egyptians. For this reason God said, the only way. There will be no president. Their reconciliation will ‹›I have indeed seen misery of my military victory for either side. end the war and stop the killings of people. I have heard them crying out innocent people. because of their slave drivers, and I They are products of am concerned about their suffering. (The second part of this reconciliation with Dr. John So, I have come down to rescue article will appear in the next Garang them.“ (Exodus 3:7-8, NIV). In the issue) Believing that their reconciliation same way, God can rescue people Rev. Ezekiel Kutjok is will end the war, I see no reason of South Sudan from the suffering a past General Secretary of why President Salva Kiir and inflicted on them by their leaders. Sudan Council of Churches and Dr. Riek Machar should reject The second relevant example of past Moderator of Dolieb Hill reconciliation between themselves God›s concern about the oppresed Presbytery of the Presbyterian and their supporters. They themselves and suffuring people comes from the Church of Sudan. He is a are products of reconciliation book of Prophet Ezekiel. Shepherds displaced person from Malakal between them and the late Dr. John were oppressing the people and God living in Uganda as a refugee.

THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 31 TCT Book Review BOOK REVIEW Book: A Poisonous Thorn in Our Hearts: Sudan and South Sudan’s Bitter and Incomplete Divorce Author: James Copnall Reviewed By: Brian Ademba Year: March 2014. Publisher: Hurst and Company, London n his exhaustive and perceptive enslavement of people from South book, among the first to assess Sudan, political domination of Sudan the birth of South Sudan in by the riverine Arabs, and colonialism 2011, author James Copnall serve to stymie notions of a common argues that Sudan’s bitter destiny. This is best captured by a quote Idivorce is incomplete. On many facets – from which the book takes its title – – economic and cultural – the fate of by Al-Tayyeb Mustafa, a journalist and the Sudans is intricately linked in a uncle to President Omar Al Bashir, who labyrinth of relations that are difficult described South Sudan as “a poisonous to untangle with a political decision thorn in our hearts.” regime and may possibly be headed inked at a negotiating table in a foreign Basing his assertions on interviews for a head-on crash with itself in capital. with many Sudanese and South the future if affairs remain as they The devastating effect of the Sudanese from various walks of life, are. From having the same secret incomplete divorce is brought to life Copnall argues that if this generation intelligence building as Khartoum, to through characters whose lives have fails to build bridges between South stifling media freedoms and chocking been shattered by it, especially along Sudan and Sudan now, the possibilities democratic pluralism, Copnall argues the border regions that are home to of such a feat become highly unlikely that the SPLM couldn’t be more similar some 13 million people. People like in the future. In particular, Copnall to Bashir’s National Congress Party Abdelaziz Hussain, the half Arab makes the point that the next generation (NCP). Just as oil bred a kleptocracy Misseriya, half Dinka herdsman who of South Sudanese, the bulk of whom in Khartoum prior to South Sudan’s bristles at the fact that he now needs grew up in Kenya and Uganda, may independence, Copnall stresses that a passport to cross into South Sudan have little in common with their a similar scenario is also unfolding to graze his animals. Or Garang counterparts in Sudan in literally in Juba. The country’s new oligarchs Thomas Dhel, a southerner who defied every sense of the word, since they are living large at the expense of convention and married a northerner, speak English and Kiswahili and are millions of South Sudanese. This has an Arab Muslim lady; but now wonders philosophically more drawn to East fostered resentment and rebellion in oil how to sustain that love in the face of Africa rather than the Arab world. producing sections of the country. the new artificial border between them. Touching on the secession of South Looking to the future, through the What appears galling, Copnall Sudan, Copnall brings to life the grim eyes of various people interviewed for argues, is the fact that politicians from reality that independence did not result the book, Copnall argues that the status north and the south are so oblivious of in the desired outcome—improved quo in leadership style needs to change the intertwining socio-economic fabric livelihoods for South Sudanese. in both countries. With regard to South of the two countries to the extent they While there are tangible and positive Sudan, some expressed fear that the push for policies designed to bring the dividends for South Sudanese, such dearth of democracy means change will other entity down. Cases in point are as increased enrollment in primary come through violent means, channeled the confiscation of South Sudan’s oil education, overall, the state is largely via ethnic lines. The December 2013 by Khartoum in December 2011, and absent from the lives of millions of shootout in Juba testifies to this fact. South Sudan’s shutdown of oil exports South Sudanese. Service delivery, for Over in Khartoum, Copnall, a through Port Sudan in early 2012. Both example, is non-existent in almost BBC journalist who spent three years decisions were catastrophic to both all sectors and most human baseline covering both countries, asserts that countries’ economies. This example indicators are in the doghouse. Copnall the biggest threat to the Bashir regime typifies the fact that both countries need however cautions against blanket blame will originate from within the NCP. But each other economically; South Sudan on the government. He cites a plethora that, he argues, is unlikely to change needs Khartoum’s pipelines to export of issues—pervasive inexperience, the fundamental characteristics of the oil and Khartoum needs the oil to flow corruption, and nepotism—as being regime. to generate revenue from pipe rentals. behind the government’s poor But Copnall takes extreme care performance. to let readers know that despite the In the context of the conflict (This review first appeared in The commonalities between South Sudan unraveling in South Sudan, Copnall EastAfrican, April 26-May 2, 2014 and “rump” Sudan, these similarities makes the rather prophetic observation edition.) The reviewer, Brian Adeba, may be superficial, for still waters run that post-independence South Sudan is is an Associate of the Security deep. Ancient legacies tied to Arab an exact replica of Bashir’s oppressive Governance Group. 32 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Letters to the Editor TCT

The editor welcomes brief letters on topical issues. Write an e-mail to: [email protected]. You can also mail to: The Editor, The Christian Times, P. O. Box 2282-00100, LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Nairobi, Kenya. Letters may be edited for clarity, space and legal considerations. South Sudanese are on death row n Saturday, June 21, Juba tive mechanisms? Indeed, it is true country is on typical death row Monitor ran a story on its that many citizens of this country because majority of citizens are O front page about the death are ignorant about the existence of exposed to dangers whose ends is of 87 victims of HIV/AIDS in Yei. this killer disease or may have not death. Call it malaria, AIDS, famine, Yei River County AIDS Coordina- been made to know about it. The flood, cholera, war e.e.t.c… tor who was quoted in the story media who are supposed to sensitize Despite all these dangers, the revealed that since the beginning of masses about this killer disease are noise is about federalism and rep- this year, 2,914 people with HIV/ giving too much airtime and space resentation in the mediation talks AIDS have been registered, 896 of to proponents and opponents of in Sheraton Hotel to get IGAD per whom are currently on Anti-Retrovi- federalism and the ongoing peace diems on the pretext of peace talks ral drugs, 87 died and 291 defaulted process in Addis Ababa. This is that have already cost $17 million treatments. The official blamed being done to the extent of neglect- with nothing to show for it, other alarming infection rates on the lack ing other serious problems affecting than empty speeches and snapshots of awareness, stigma and cultural people in this country. for Al-Jazeera and BBC televisions! practices like polygamy among the If 87 people could die in six Meanwhile, South Sudanese are people. months just in one county, how still waiting the ‘messiah’ to come But, who is supposed to conduct many victims are infected or have with mechanisms that will educate sensitization and awareness on this died of AIDS in the other 71 coun- and sensitize those who deny the ex- deadly disease? Should awareness ties in South Sudan? I believe the istence of AIDS to accept its reality, creation also wait for the final peace statistics could be worrisome. If so that we don’t lose other 87 South accord between the government and these figures are added to numbers Sudanese lives again in the next six Dr. Riek Machar’s rebels? Should it dying of cholera, malaria, typhoid, months in the border town of Yei! wait for restructuring of governance famine and victims of ongoing systems in South Sudan so that civil war, it means we are living Mapuor Malual Manguen service delivery can consequently in a country whose citizens are on [email protected] or address HIV and AIDS preven- the verge of extinction. In fact, the mapuormalual.wordpress.com

THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 33 TCT Peace Building Reconciling repentance and forgiveness, with justice and reconciliation repentance, there is no possibility for subvert the legal process. reconciliation. So we forgive those In fact, bringing people to who sin against us – we put away temporal justice is an act of love. It vengeance, and we leave them in does no one any good to be allowed God’s good and sovereign hands – to break the law with impunity; it but the relationship remains broken. damages everyone involved: victim, In a sense, our forgiveness is perpetrator, and society as a whole. no longer an external transaction So, forgiveness means that while between us and the person who we will call on the courts to enact sinned against us, but it is now an justice, we must not use the courts internal transaction between us to fuel our desire for vengeance. and God. We say to God, “I leave Our ultimate goal is the sinner’s this person and the righting of any restoration. However, his lack of wrongs to you. I trust you will repentance severely limits the role ultimately do what is right and we can play in this directly. We good. As for me, my desire is for his seek what is best for him through (This is a salvation, and so I pray that you will the courts, and we pray for his continuation of bring him to repentance and faith in salvation, entrusting his eternal the Lord Jesus so that he can escape destiny to God’s mercy and truth. the article that we judgment, as you in your abundant mercy have enabled me to do.” Forgiveness when the published in the last Once again, on the question victim is someone else issue) of the unrepentant brother’s sin involving a breaking of the law, the This forms the final context for Confidence in God same applies as before. Forgiveness forgiveness, which can, in some puts us under no obligation to circumstances, be the most difficult he reason Jesus of all, and it happens when the could exhibit such victim is someone else. amazing restraint Our forgiveness is no If we truly have confidence was because of his in God to right every wrong; if complete trust in longer an external we truly believe with Paul that in This heavenly Father to right Christ God has already blessed transaction between every wrong. Jesus knew he us with every blessing that really had a role to fulfill – a job to us and the person who count, then we may be able to do – and he knew that would put up with being sinned against involve wicked people doing sinned against us, but fairly well. “That’s life in a fallen wicked things to him. But it is now an internal world,” we say to ourselves, “but standing over it all was the our citizenship is in heaven” good and sovereign God, and transaction between (Philippians 3:20). Jesus knew that he could trust us and God. We say to But when the one sinned him to balance every ledger against is someone we love, then and bring justice to every deed. God, “I leave this person the intensity of our reaction to And so we return to the and the righting of any the sinner can really surprise us. I question of forgiveness when suspect some of this comes from there is no repentance. 1 Peter wrongs to you. I trust our feelings of helplessness and/ 2 teaches us to follow Jesus’ you will ultimately do or guilt at not having been able to example. And Jesus was the prevent it. one who cried out from the what is right and good. But at least some of our reaction cross, “Father, forgive them” As for me, my desire is comes from a good place: our deep (Luke 23:34). We are still concern for our friend’s welfare. So obliged to forgive. for his salvation’’. what can we say about forgiveness However, the difference in this context? is that where there is no Of course, most of what has

34 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Peace Building TCT already been said still applies, we are obliged to forgive, and also to seek reconciliation, where repentance makes that possible. What is a little different, however, is that by being the injured third party, we have even more freedom to make use of the temporal means of justice and restoration God has blessed us with. If the sinner is a brother in Christ, we can call on him to repent with much greater intensity and freedom than his victim could. If the sinner has broken the law, then there are now two people we can love through seeing that wrong also put right. Children in UNMISS displaced people’s camp in Bor, Jonglei State. We may even be in a position, as was Paul, to facilitate the restoration of the relationship by is a good thing, but in our hearts we but unforgiveness costs more tangible means ourselves. often struggle and secretly feel that in the end. Whatever happens, however, it is unfair, unjust and even question we must never seek to take God’s intention to request us to How do we find grace ultimate vengeance into our own forgive. To be requested to forgive to forgive? hands: seems to hurt us even further and Do not revenge, my friends, open the past wounds and our losses. Facing and owning our but leave room for God’s wrath, When that happens, we feel as if pain, pouring it into God’s, for it is written, “it is mine to forgiveness takes something from us letting Jesus take all the avenge; I will repay,” says the and perhaps injures us for a second responsibility. Lord (Romans 12:19). time. Nevertheless, true biblical Entrusting ourselves and As God has had such a forgiveness is for our own benefit. the offenders into the hands of profound mercy on us to raise We are exhorted to accept that the just judge and recognizing us from death in sin to new life as well as being compassionate and how much we ourselves need in Christ (Ephesians 2:1-5), merciful, God is also just. Asking God’s forgiveness. so our passion for everyone, us to forgive is not unjust on God’s In conclusion, we can say friends or enemy alike, must be terms. It is critical that we have a that forgiveness works to our for God to pour out same mercy right understanding of what God is advantage, not against us, and on them as he has on us. And asking us to do when he tells us to God is not being unreasonable what rejoicing there will be in forgive. or unkind by asking us to the last day when, as those who Thus to understand biblical forgive. In fact, it shows how have in common the wonderful forgiveness, we must understand much he loves us. forgiveness of an intolerable what it is not: I pray that we will have burden of sin, we can join •Forgiveness is not saying it does a forgiving and a reconciled together in praising God’s grace not matter, or agreeing with sin. nation. and his son, our Lord forever. •Forgiveness is not denying our feelings of anger, sadness and so on. •Forgiveness is not forgetting, or Recap of forgiveness being unable to recall it. (Adapted from sermon •Forgiveness does not mean by Dr. Andrew Shead, 2013, While the subject of refusing to cooperate with the Sydney, Australia. Healing forgiveness is taught in homes, country’s justice system. the Wounds of Ethnic Conflict, churches and probably in •Forgiveness does not mean 2011) mosques, it is perhaps one of avoiding working things out. the most controversial and What then is forgiveness? misunderstood subjects. Far too •Forgiveness is giving The author, Rev. Dr. often, the human heart does not undeserved gift to the offender. Bernard Oliya Suwa, is the Secretary General, Committee find forgiveness easy. The more •Forgiveness is laying down our we try to forgive, the more we right to take revenge. for National Healing, Peace and Reconciliation. He can find that the same pain returns to •Forgiving is choosing mercy haunt us. instead of judgment. be reached at bosuwa@gmail. We all agree that forgiveness •Forgiveness is something costly, com.

THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 35 TCT Peace Building Three years on: The crisis in South Sudan and what the Church can do to bring peace outh Sudan’s hard- fought independence was achieved on July 9, 2011 with celebration and hopeful expectation. SExactly three years later, the young country tops the list of the most fragile countries in the world and finds itself in the midst of a deadly conflict and on the verge of a famine. The situation in South Sudan is dire. Clashes that began in December 2013 have led to a full- blown civil war, with 10,000 dead and over 1 million displaced. Inter- communal fighting, typically over the peacemaking process in South of human dignity, conflict resources such as land, water and Sudan, engaging in both top-down resolution methods, forgiveness and cattle – often with deadly outcomes diplomacy, as well as bottom-up reconciliation, and trauma healing. – has led to severe distrust between reconciliation and peace-building. Another model of peace tribal factions. The latest round of While political differences are building used in the region is the peace talks, in which the two main ironed out at the national level, the Village Peace Committee initiative. sides to the conflict agreed to a church has and can play a greater Spear-headed by local churches, 60-day timeline for establishing a role in bringing communities leaders are elected from within transitional government, have all together to ensure that they do not the community, trained in conflict but stalled and show little promise resort to further violence. resolution and mediation techniques, of achieving tangible peace any time For instance, Archbishop Daniel and are then tasked with helping to soon. Deng Bul of the Episcopal Church resolve conflicts at the community Tragically, the greatest was appointed chair of the national level. Many of these peace-building devastation may be yet to come. reconciliation committee. The efforts have been immensely In May, the Famine Early Warning committee is tasked with managing successful in helping to address System announced that there is a the process of reconciliation, local disagreements and create significant threat of potential famine and will work with the South common ground within and across in South Sudan if humanitarian Sudan Peace and Reconciliation communities. By mitigating conflict needs are not addressed Commission to do so. While it is before it erupts, these programs help immediately, with an estimated 3.5 noteworthy that a Church leader has to foster a culture of peace. million people in need of urgent been offered this honorable role, it To be sure, the complicated humanitarian assistance and as should come as no surprise given crisis in South Sudan will require a many as 55,000 children facing the fact that at some of the worst range of diplomatic, humanitarian, death as a result. Current numbers times of violence, the Church was development and peace-building indicate that an additional $1 billion often the only organization in local initiatives. Given that the underlying is needed to avert this devastating communities providing life-saving ethnic tensions have become central suffering and loss of life. services. to the violence, local peace-building As the crisis worsens, much Perhaps more importantly, the efforts that build bridges between international attention has focused church is also uniquely placed communities, seek reconciliation for on diplomatic efforts to bring to be an agent of peace at the past grievances, and identify areas various warring factions together grassroots level, because the church of common ground between hostile to cease violence. While such is, at its core, a grassroots entity. groups can make the difference in diplomatic efforts are critical, they Conflict starts at the bottom and bringing lasting peace to Sudan. are not enough. Additional efforts then trickles up. In South Sudan, The local church, as one important are needed to ensure that the root there are already organizations that leader in civil society, can determine causes of the conflict – including work on the ground to build bridges whether peace in South Sudan is grievances over land and inter- across communities and encourage short lived or sustained. And, the communal disputes – are addressed. reconciliation rather than retaliation global Church has an opportunity to The engagement of civil society when conflict does occur. Some join South Sudan by demonstrating can help create sustainable peace. organizations are working to train the truth behind its founder’s words, One critical institution of civil community leaders and pastors “Blessed are the peacemakers, for society is the local church. The local in reconciliation and implement they will be called children of God” church is one of the few institutions community development programs (Matthew 5:9). people can trust. Historically, the for the most vulnerable. Such church has played a pivotal role in programs highlight the importance (Christian Post) 36 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Gender & Development TCT The fight for peace requires no guns or grenades, it starts in the heart are currently fighting? Not many will say refer to other tribes. yes. Some will protect their loved ones But if you think that these things will first and remember the tribe later. just miraculously happen one sunny day For so many years, South Sudanese in Juba, think again. We have to be ready came together because we all knew to pay the price. As South Sudanese, we without a doubt that we are stronger know nothing comes easy and we should together. There are many South Sudanese not expect this to just go away. Stand up who either resisted colonization, or those for peace; stand up for the lady you want who represented South Sudan’s interests to marry who belongs to another tribe; in diplomatic forums such as the 1947 stand up for the father of your child who Juba Conference or the Addis Ababa is still trying to come to terms with the Agreement. There are some who started extent to which tribalism can tear a man; the Torit Uprising, the South Sudan stand up even if only to feel that joy we Provisional Government (SSPG) and felt as we sang so many songs of the the South Sudan Liberation Movement referendum. (SSLM). Closer to our times are the By Foda Hilda Michael The fight for peace requires no guns leaders and members of the Anyanya or grenades; nor does it call for spears e are Junubin and I and II, the South Sudan Liberation and bow and arrows; or even negative, every now and Movement/Army (SPLM/A) and the hurtful words about another tribe. The then we would very leaders in the current government celebrate our heritage fight for peace starts in the heart so that and also the rebel movement. we can accept each other together with and culture; our I dare not forget our Lost Boys and Wnationality and patriotism; and our unity our differences and find a way to forge Girls and all South Sudanese in the forward – united as South Sudanese. and companionship. diaspora who equally went through their No one would care which tribe the The fight for peace needs to be fought personal struggle during the war and in our minds so that we do not think of other came from. Oh the young men depict the struggle all South Sudanese each other as enemies but as brothers how they would speak of the different have gone through – together. and sisters, even if we look different. ladies and compare them – the Acholi, Isn’t it humbling how so many South the Dinka, the Nuer, the Zande, the The fight for peace is in our words, our Sudanese from so many tribes came gestures, our actions and our thoughts. It Mundu, the Bari, the Mundari, the is what we feel in our hearts – not what Fojulu… so many eligible young ladies together to fight for freedom so many times? Yes, a war comprises of many politics makes us feel. It is the simple form so many different tribes. And the ladies, the lovely smooth skinned, dark chocolate skin coloured ladies would smile and swoon as male attention flowed their way. Who would win the best bachelor? Before long we are all rushing to beautify ourselves with henna, buying new clothes for the wedding, my hair! Look how bad it looks; I need to go to the salon. The cooking for the after party ladies, quick the in-laws are coming! Mash Allah! We would all exclaim as the bride walked in to join her husband to be. Forget that the man is half Mundari and half Nuer and the lady Dinka. Forget that their parents’ tribes probably fought each other over something or the other. battles with some being rebellions and greeting your neighbour gives you in the Forget that. Today is a happy day. We mutinies. Even in a war two brothers will morning; or the wal-wal a friend invited bring four tribes and families together to you to share with them; maybe it’s the create one family. disagree and fight it out. But the lesson I want to take from these personalities honey and mangoes your colleague Such is the story of South Sudan. who stood out during the various battles brings from Yambio every time the So many different reasons to fight but fought is that at some point a compromise season is right and he is visiting; and it thousands more to be united – if not has to be reached. The fact of the matter could be the communal eating we enjoy only for the most powerful reason: love. is that at some point two brothers who when we go to the local restaurant and And what happens when we fail to ask for or with . agree amongst ourselves? Is this love did not agree will finally see common ‘khudra’ ‘bamia’ ‘kisra’ ground; warring tribes will put down their We have stepped up to so many forgotten? Do we put our loved ones weapons and vow to start over; children challenges. Let this not be the challenge aside because they belong to the tribe we will forget so many stereotypes used to that defeats Junubin. Junubinoyee!!! THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 37 TCT Entertainment/Youth Junction Crisis of youth or crisis of society in South Sudan? By Christopher Zambakari n July 9, 2014, the Republic of South Sudan celebrated its third independence anniversary. The jubilee that initially Owelcomed South Sudan into the community of nations has begun to fade and the reality of crises has gradually taken front stage. In particular, South Sudan faces two daunting challenges as it attempts to build a state and bring its diverse nationalities into the framework of a nation. The first problem is that of security, law and order. The second is that of building a viable developmental (Above) Youth hanging out together in Juba: “If South Sudan is going to have a state capable of spearheading the chance to compete politically and economically with other nations, it will require national objectives contained in both the contribution of its youth and the experience of its older generations” (Be- its guiding framework: Vision 2040. low) )Youth sitting for national exams in a UN camp in Juba: Experts say when dis- The two challenges are related. cussing education, the emphasis must surpass basic literacy to include tertiary education (UNMISS). For sustainable development to occur South Sudan must be and the lack of law enforcement. Jok citizens.” stabilized and violence contained. M. Jok, the Executive Director of the There are many reasons why The rule of law must be instituted Sudd Institute, notes that: the youth resort to violence: lack of and enforced. Given that the “Insecurity has risen to a level development and education, access majority of the population in South where fear has started to hold people to basic services, high unemployment, Sudan is under the age of 30, this hostage in their neighborhoods at and increase in dowry for marriage paper discusses the youth - who night. Foreign migrant labourers have in certain states. In the states with constitute the majority of the been targeted both by elements in strong pastoral communities and population - and their place in the the security agencies and by local cattle-based economies such Jonglei, nation-building process. The first of unemployed youth, who only see Unity, Warrap, Lakes, and Upper several important questions is this: growing economic and lifestyle Niles, incidents of cattle raiding Does South Sudan face a crisis of disparities between themselves have been widespread and have youth or a crisis of society? Then, and the few young people who are led to the displacement and death what is the place of this youthful relatives of the political class. There of thousands of people. Without majority in the emerging nation? is also increasing xenophobia against any real alternative, young people, Political violence and the migrant youth from East African often the most dynamic group in role of the youth countries, as they are seen by the the population, turn to violence as a While violence is the main local youth as having stolen their means of survival. Given the desperate factor that accounts for the jobs and living better lives than the circumstances, the youth can easily be disintegration of South Sudanese societies, the unraveling of the social fabric and the death of millions of people is traceable to under-development. The surge in inter-communal violence involving young people is not a stand-alone act. It is driven by issues such as access to pasture, water, and cattle grazing in the Greater Upper Nile. In the Greater Bahr el Ghazal and in Equatoria, the issues include access to land and concerns for ethnic homeland. In all three places, people suffer from: lack of access to basic services, lack of economic development, denied rights to citizenship, the inability of the state to provide security,

38 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 Sport TCT mobilized and are often the primary things, the government should address communities, migrants, internally recruits to join rebel movements. issues affecting the majority of the displaced populations, and refugees The young are a formidable force people in a coherent and consistent rather than allow unaided citizens for the government as well as for manner. These include establishing to take matters into their owns rebel groups. Without resolving these law and order, broadening the political hands. The government must issues, violence will continue to community, strengthening state take a leadership role in ensuring create instability and to cost human government, bringing decision-making access to basic services. While lives. An exclusive emphasis on the powers and services delivery closer International Non-governmental youth will, however, be counter- to the people, building education Organizations (INGOs) can help productive if that emphasis alienates infrastructure, creating jobs and with the provision of basics or excludes the rest of society. To be working with communities to increase services, they cannot replace sustainable, policy must include all inter-communal dialogues. the government nor should the the key stakeholders. It must straddle When discussing education, the government defer to INGOs those the older and younger generations, emphasis must surpass basic literacy tasks for which it is responsible. making use of the numeric strength of to include tertiary education. This Without providing these services, younger people while harnessing the includes skills training, multifaceted insecurity will continue in the experience of their elders. knowledge-building, and a substantial country and young people will Generational gap and investment in the infrastructure of increasingly find alternative ways discontinuity local knowledge production. The to access those services, even if A noticeable trend in recent problems caused by unemployment through violent acts. years has been that of disconnection and under-employment demand a Lastly, if the arrogance of youth between generations. While in the leadership in South Sudan that can compels the younger generation past young people could easily be establish an environment where to discard the wisdom of past managed by elders, the legacies of the majority can thrive politically, generations, they will surely repeat slavery, wars, and the breakdown economically, and socially. the mistakes of the past. Instead of of clan leadership in South Sudan Lessons from Africa and around building on useful past legacies and have fragmented society, uprooted people, and broken family links. Elders complain that the youth no longer listen to them. Then, South Sudanese leaders, like their counterparts in various parts of Africa, are drawn from those nationalists who fought for independence. Instead of making room for and tapping the potential of the youth, investing in human capacities and infrastructure for the future, leaders have instead adopted an adversarial stance toward the young, viewing them either as incompetent or as competitors for coveted government positions. Unfortunately, the loss of faith in the young is a faith lost in the future. The gap between the older generation and the younger generation is wide and increasing. As the younger generation loses faith in the older the world show that exclusion from going beyond past generations, the generation, the older generation governance and disenfranchisement likelihood is that they will struggle further entrenches its place in power of the majority often sow “seeds of to match the contribution of the and consolidates its position even political unrest, economic collapse older generation. If South Sudan is deeper. Whenever the majority of any and war.” It was the political exclusion going to have a chance to compete country is excluded from governance, of the majority from governance and politically and economically with a country cannot fulfill its fullest the systematic social and economic other nations, it will require potential. A silent majority cannot marginalization of the masses that both the contribution of its youth demand a majority stake unless that produced systemic poverty throughout and the experience of its older majority realizes its strengths and Sudan, which, in turn, created an generations. South Sudan must develops a consciousness to fight for incentive for armed uprisings. The harness and build the potential its rights. late Dr. John Garang, Chairman and of its people in order to build a The way forward Commander-in-Chief of the Sudan peaceful and prosperous country. The United Nations Economic People’s Liberation Movement/Army This article was first published Commission for Africa (UNECA) noted (SPLM/A), noted that “under these last year by Pambazuka News. that “we need to ensure that young circumstances the marginal cost of Christopher Zambakari is a Doctor people are equipped with social and rebellion in the South became very of Law and Policy (LP.D.), North- market-related skills which will enable small, zero or negative; that is, in the eastern University, Boston, Mas- them to be well integrated young South it pays to rebel.” South Sudan sachusetts, and a Rotary Peace adults as well as being competitive must learn these important lessons if Fellow, University of Queensland, at the national, sub-regional and it is to build a durable democracy. Australia. His work has been global levels.” The role of the state South Sudan also must work published in law, economic, and in South Sudan is critical to resolving in collaboration with regional and public policy journals. He can be its societal problems. Among other international partners to address reached at: Zambakari.c@husky. issues related to trans-boundary neu.edu.

THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 39 TCT the christianSPORTS 23 U-20 Women’s World Cup in August. Article 13, par. 1 and article 17, par. 1 of the FIFA Statutes oblige member associations to manage their affairs independently and with no influence from SPORT third parties. As a result of the suspension, no team from Nigeria of any sort (including clubs) FIFA lifts suspension could participate in any international sporting contact. Earlier this month, the Associated Press reported that NFF President Aminu of Nigeria Football Maigari had been arrested due to an incident with player payments during the World Cup tournament, which led to the Federation Nigerian government’s decision to go against FIFA’s directives. This isn’t the first time Nigeria’s government has interfered with the NFF, as country president Goodluck Jonathan threatened to withdraw the team from international competition after a the 2010 World Cup. The Super Eagles made it out of the group stages of the recently concluded 2014 World Cup but was eliminated 2-0 by France in the round of 16. The Nigerian government had until July 15 to lift the court actions and reinstate all of the NFF officials. Nigeria players react after their 0-2 defeat in the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Round Should the government have failed to of 16 match between France and Nigeria at Estadio Nacional on June 30, 2014 in Brasilia, Brazil (FIFA). comply by then, the women’s U-20 team would have been banned from the he world’s football governing the Nigerian government sacked the upcoming Women’s World Cup. body FIFA has announced that entire NFF leadership structure following During a period of suspension for any it has lifted the suspension it the team’s return from the 2014 World national football federation, the federation had imposed on the Nigeria Cup in Brazil and appointed its own may not be represented in any regional, Football Federation (NFF) official, which is in violation of FIFA’s continental or international competitions, Ton 9 July 2014 because of government official statutes. including at club level, or in friendly interference in football. FIFA has very clear rules surrounding matches. FIFA said it lifted the suspension third-party interference in national In addition, neither the NFF nor any after the court proceedings and order football federations. After the Nigerian of its members or officials can benefit preventing the president of the NFF, the government hit the NFF with a court from any FIFA or Confederation of NFF Executive Committee members order that prevents it from doing its job, African Football (CAF) development and the NFF Congress from running the the FIFA Emergency Committee decided programmes, courses or training during affairs of Nigerian football that prompted to suspend the NFF from all international the suspension period. the suspension had been withdrawn. competition. All the African teams in the World “As statutory order has been If the suspension had stayed, it Cup – Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Algeria, reinstated at the NFF and the legitimate could have led to the Nigeria Under-20 Ghana - did not go beyond the round of bodies reinstalled, FIFA has decided to women’s team missing out on the FIFA 16. lift the suspension as of today, Friday 18 July 2014,” said a statement on FIFA’a website. AS A RESULT OF THE SUSPENSION, The lifting of the suspension means that all rights of the NFF as a FIFA NO TEAM FROM NIGERIA OF ANY member as defined in article 12 of the FIFA Statutes are reinstated. Earlier, FIFA announced the SORT (INCLUDING CLUBS) COULD suspension of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) from all its sporting PARTICIPATE IN ANY INTERNATIONAL activities due to government interference in football activities. This happened after SPORTING CONTACT.

40 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 TCT World Cup 2014 comes to an end: Brazil fails to reach final at home

Brazilian coach Loius Felipe Scolari.

By TCT correspondent the harrowing 7-1 loss against Hours after Germany edged out Germany was costly and painful as it Argentina to win the World Cup, it he biggest football ended a 64 year dream of winning the was agreed that Scolari’s contract extravaganza in the world World Cup on home soil. would not be renewed. Even without has come to an end, The Third Place Play-Off was an their two most dependable players with the home country opportunity for Louis Felipe Scolari’s Neymar and Silva, the Germany providing the biggest team to say farewell with dignity in match was a horrendous display from Tshock of the tournament. Brazil lost front of fans who never turned their Brazil. Soccer pundits say even with out to Germany 7-1 in the semi-final, backs on their team, even during its his resume, finding another managing thus failing to make it to the final, as darkest moments. But this was not to position at the World Cup will be many pundits had expected. be. difficult for Scolari, 65, after the two The Germany’s eventually The Selecao lost the consolation losses. won the 2014 World Cup, beating match 3-0 to the Netherlands, which Pundits say that Brazilian fans Argentina 1-0 in extra time. turned out to be the final straw for and players will have to forget the Since winning the FIFA Scolari as Brazil’s boss. According debacle of the 2014 World Cup, Confederations Cup last year, the to Sky Sports, Scolari has ended his unite and move forward from what Brazilian team has suffered just one tenure as coach, and contracts for the might be the most crushing defeats in defeat in 10 games. Unfortunately, rest of his staff have run their course. Brazil’s illustrious history. Germany were the best team at the World Cup - and England can learn a lot from them, says Phil Thompson. Joachim Low’s men clinched the title fourth time in their history. However, Thompson stressed the in Brazil thanks to an extra-time vol- "We’ve got to try and get more fact that Germany’s 2014 success has ley from 22-year-old Mario Gotze English players in the Premier League, not happened overnight but is instead against Argentina on Sunday night they’ve got to have the chance." the result of years of planning. and lifted the coveted trophy for the

THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014 41 TCT

42 THE CHRISTIAN TIMES, August 2014