Less than five years into being an independent country, the economy and political situation is in a mess. Sadly much of this is due to the greed and corruption of their leaders.
After two years of conflict, which started in December 2013; and many millions of US dollars used up in negotiating, a final ‘peace agreement’ was reached in August 2015. However, the new Vice President has yet to arrive in Juba and a unity government to be formed.
Out of control
The exchange rate has spiralled, making the local currency somewhat worthless. Many shops, a factory and other businesses have closed. The army is not in control. Many local militia have formed to protect their communities. Juba especially is very insecure – many armed robberies and stolen vehicles – most people try to stay at home after dark. The violence seems worse than that during the long war with the North.
Some ‘successful’ programmes and institutions have begun but are struggling to survive, and to find the necessary funding to continue.
Yei Teacher Training College continues to develop and attract students. Due to the crazy economy, the student contribution is well below cost yet remains a significant amount for them to find. But somehow the college has been successful in attracting funds from various sources. Each year around 100 students graduate. Emmanuel Christian Training College, 20 miles out of Yei, started by Open Doors, trains teachers, pastors and church workers. Students are ‘imported’ i.e. flown in from all over South Sudan.
His House of Hope hospital started in 2012 for maternal and child care and is a ray of hope, though fraught with problems.
Each of these three institutions includes discipleship in various forms as a core component.
