Canadian Jesuits International is providing the dispatches below to keep friends and supporters up-to-date on developments in South Sudan, particularly in areas where there are people and projects supported by Jesuit Refugee Service or the Xavier Network, of which CJI is a member. The first update, about targeted attacks in Maban, may be found below. Since then, we have received further statements and updates from Noelle Fitzpatrick, who is the Xavier Network’s Liaison Officer for South Sudan, and from others.
Public Forum at Hekima University College
Notice of an event on the South Sudan peace process and what is at stake for the future
September 7, 2018
Loyola Secondary School shines
A report by Fr Martin Waweru SJ tells of the excellent exam results of Loyola Secondary School students – despite the war trauma many of them have experienced.
From AOR News Update, 31 August 2018
Report from Juba
August 6, 2018
Update from Jesuit Refugee Service – Eastern Africa (JRSEA)
On response of humanitarian community in Maban
August 4, 2018
Report from Yambio
August 3, 2018
Press release from the South Sudan NGO Forum
On the violent attacks against humanitarian aid agencies in Maban
July 28, 2018
Statement by the Coalition of Advocates for South Sudan (CASS)
On the Peace Talks and Initiatives regarding South Sudan
July 26, 2018
Targeted attacks in Maban
On 23 July 2018, a series of targeted attacks on humanitarian assets and compounds took place in Maban, South Sudan, where thousands of refugees live. There was widespread destruction and looting of property in the care of eight humanitarian agencies, including CJI’s partner Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS). Fortunately no loss of life was reported.
The Arrupe Learning Centre (ALC) — which is run by JRS and which was offering computer courses, English-language classes, and teacher training — was badly affected. Chairs, tables, computers, food, clothing and beds were stolen and structural damage to the facility was perpetrated. Eight staff members were trapped inside the Centre for hours before being given shelter by a local sheik. The mob then dispersed before an armed response from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) eventually arrived.
Fortunately, the JRS compound itself was the only non-governmental organization (NGO) compound in Maban that was not destroyed. This was thanks to brave intervention by local church leaders who pleaded with the attackers to leave the JRS compound alone.
Calm has now returned to Maban but the situation remains highly volatile and unpredictable. Most JRS staff have been evacuated to Juba. More than 80,000 people who needed the education and humanitarian services being offered in Maban will be without all but the most basic requirements until some rebuilding and normalcy return.
CJI’s Xavier Network partner, the Irish Jesuit Mission Office, has greatly supported the work of JRS in Maban. They request our prayers. For more information, please see the Irish Mission Office Statement on the Violence in Maban, South Sudan.
