As South Sudan prepares for independence in less than a month, sweeping changes are taking place at a rapid rate. While there is still conflict and instability in many parts, the region as a whole is enjoying the effects of peace. For those liberated from slavery in the North, there is now the opportunity to establish a new life for themselves.
One of the conditions of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 2005 was an end to the militia raids which devastated the border regions. In addition to the loss of life and property was the trauma of abduction. Tens of thousands of Dinka boys and girls were abducted and sold into slavery in the Northern parts of Sudan.
In January 2010 I visited the border regions and met with liberated slaves and spoke with community leaders working for their release. It is claimed that 35,000 southerners remain enslaved. Even for those who are liberated or manage to escape, returning to life in their own society is filled with difficulties.
Soon I will be going back to visit the region again and will explore a request to provide a program that will assist liberated slaves to establish new homes and new lives.
