Guest post from LWR's International Policy Analyst, Krista Zimmerman
Buses transporting people and goods between Juba, Sudan, and the Ugandan border.
I recently flew into a small, crowed airport in Juba,
Sudan as part of a policy research trip. The airport and its regular international flights are small miracles to those who live here.
A civil war that ended in 2005 left Juba virtually destroyed. But today it is something of a boom town – buzzing with air traffic, entrepreneurial activity and construction projects.
At least one resident, 20 year-old Moses, could not be happier.
Born in Juba, Moses fled to Uganda during the war. Four years ago he returned and is beside himself at the changes that have overtaken his city. He is especially pleased with new employment opportunities. Currently working as a waiter in one of the city’s popular new restaurants, he looks to a future he believes will be even brighter.
Like many young people, Moses is particularly excited and concerned about the year ahead. Sudan expects to soon hold its first national elections in 20 years, after which the south will vote on whether to become an independent nation.
Conflict surrounding these events, especially all out war, could destroy much of what was rebuilt.
In the years to come, young Sudanese say they hope the United States will continue to support and strengthen southern Sudan as it struggles to sustain a fragile peace.
Lutheran World Relief is supporting
Senate Resolution 404, calling on the U.S. Government to increase efforts to assist Sudan and to fully implement the Comprehensive Peace Agreement. It encourages the President to develop contingency plans for all eventualities – and to focus on long term development in the region.
Find out if your senators are co-sponsors and either thank them for their support or ask them to add their names to this important piece of legislation.