More About Disaster Response
More About South Sudan
On July 9, South Sudan, the world's newest country,
celebrated the first anniversary of its independence. Meet the people of South
Sudan and learn about their hopes and dreams for their new nation. Each
works for Catholic Relief Services in Juba, the capital of South Sudan.
 Osman Issa Bin Aligo, finance assistant
"On July 9, 2011, we finally felt our prayers have been
answered after a long struggle. This was the time me, my family members and
friends were so emotional that freedom has finally come, with expectations of
everlasting peace, harmony and prosperity. The independence declaration made me
feel I can achieve my dreams, since peace has finally reached my country after
all the tragedy around its corners. I personally felt relief of being at home
after being forced to exile from a war-ravaged country. I welcome the U.S. and
international community with all the support they have shown in delivering
their services to the young nation." |
Elizabeth Abuk, cleaner
"After independence I have observed a decline in internal
conflicts and, with this, there is room for development. I hope for stability
so that children can go to school and that I even can return to school. Also
with stability comes development. My dream is that South Sudan becomes like the
United States, where people are enjoying the fruits of peace." |
Jimmy Moro Samuel, program assistant
"I see [independence] as a milestone for total freedom
giving way to total stability, peace and prosperity. My hope for South Sudan is
to let the peace prevail, with the dream of seeing support from all charitable
and good friends from overseas to come to South Sudan to develop the human
resources and infrastructure in this new nation. I kindly urge the U.S.
government, who is the key player in the peace processes between Sudan and
South Sudan, and the international community to strongly support to bring a
lasting peace." |
Eric Kerri, driver
"We are now a full nation, and I am very proud to become
independent. Before we have been struggling for it and now we achieved our goal
and everybody is free. The future of our country is we want to join our hands
with internationals to build this young nation. My dream is that South Sudan
becomes a very good country with democracy, where any foreigner can come here
and is free and feels at home. I thank God that he placed all Southerners and
internationals together here in South Sudan." |
All photos by Chrissie Ferrara/CRS. Text by Kim Pozniak and Crissie Ferrara.
