Mission in Gok Machar...

Since peace has come to South Sudan countless thousands of Darfuris have sought refuge from the ongoing conflict in Darfur. Gok Machar in Aweil North has been a gathering point because of its proximity to the border with Southern Darfur and many have then been transported to the Kakuma refugee camp on the Kenyan border.

Recently there has been a new wave of Darfuris arriving, and they are being settled in IDP settlements just south of Gok Machar. Christian leaders from various churches in Aweil travel to Gok Machar to care for these new arrivals.

For those who have faced the trauma of war and fled their homeland, it is a great comfort to be welcomed and cared for by people who have experienced the same suffering.

Child Victims Of War...

When we met with the Chief in Marialbai in January we began planning a program that would provide for the many children who have lost parents in the civil war. Land was provided and the Chief and Sub-Chiefs started the process of registration so that the children in greatest need would benefit. Shortly after we returned to Australia George Aguer travelled to Marialbai and continued our preparations. They have identified 240 children who have lost both parents, and estimate the number who have lost their fathers to be between 1000 and 2000.

Plans are now underway to provide food, clothing, education and accommodation for those in greatest need. Consideration is being given to how we might provide de facto families to give these young lives the care and nurture they have been robbed of.

George Aguer meeting with war orphans in Marialbai

Registration...

I now have in my hands our Certificate of Registration, confirming that Australian Churches of Christ Global Mission Partners is a registered Non-Government Organisation in Southern Sudan. Effectively this is a licence by the Government of Southern Sudan for us to operate in the country and to conduct Christian missions, and to provide humanitarian aid and community development projects.

Until now we have supported Christian leaders and organisations with various church based ministries and development projects. Our registration means we can now run our own projects, employ leaders, open a bank account, receive tax exemptions and entry permits, own and register vehicles and other practicalities associated with establishing our mission. I have also been informed that we will now qualify for registration with the UN which will give access to the highest level security advice, transport on UN planes, and evacuation in the event of an emergency.

I want to thank George Agwer who delivered our application in Juba earlier this year, and recently returned with our certificate. George has also been instrumental in continuing preparations for the establishment of our mission in Marialbai amongst war orphans. But I will write more on this soon...

PS- Some people have told me they have had difficulty posting comments. I have changed the settings to make this easier. Would love to hear from you...