An anniversary for the world’s youngest nation.

Today is the first anniversary of the independence of South Sudan. The world marvelled at the initial peaceful transition. However, today huge challenges are being faced as the South Sudanese people seek to build a new nation. An entire national infrastructure has to be developed to provide health care, education and other basic services. Add to that the flood of hundreds of thousands of refugees from the Republic of Sudan. On top of all that there has been ongoing disputes in the border states and intertribal conflict that has seen thousands die. So much needs to be done at so many levels. Our partners at Integral Alliance are responding to the refugee Crisis in Unity State. The South Sudan Evangelical Alliance has been working at peace building and reconciliation. Our Sudanese leaders have joined us at the UN Arms Trade Treaty Talks to speak out for the need for a comprehensive treaty which includes ammunition. As Sudanese Bishop Taban said, “A gun without bullets is just as stick.” The WEA is engaging in some diplomatic efforts to bring greater peace and stability.

On this anniversary of the newest nation of the world let’s say a prayer for those who struggle for hope in South Sudan.