At SGN, we are very saddened by the situation in South Sudan and by the continuing crises involving all the marginalized people of Sudan. We became involved in this movement nine years ago after learning about Darfur, and as we learned more, we came to understand that there needed to be a comprehensive approach—an “all Sudan” approach—in promoting peace. The recent events in South Sudan area a result of decades of lost opportunities.
We also feel the same about the power of “aid” programs. We need comprehensive programs that create resilience: tools for peace! They need to, from the start, involve the affected communities and begin with interventions and programs for the youngest and most vulnerable. It is really a small investment to support education, sports, and other peace-building programs. They will payoff immediately but also ripple out positively decades (probably generations) into the future. We must move away from “from emergency to status quo” assistance. We must move away from these cycles—and the international community always “chasing” the next crisis. Not just in Sudan; not just in that region; not just in Africa. Everywhere.
Wishing for a much more peaceful and hopeful 2014. Thank you everyone for being a part of the conversation—and the solution.
For more information on the crisis in South Sudan, please check out the following links:
- The South Sudan Clashes Are No Tribal War, by Valentino Deng
- A look at South Sudan, young but restive country, Washington Post
- Fear Pulses Through Crowded South Sudan Refugee Camp, TIME.com
- Recent Reported Incidents in South Sudan Last Updated 12/27/13, Relief Web