Delegations from around the globe helped usher in the world’s newest nation the Republic of South Sudan, at the John Garang Memorial in Juba, South Sudan, on Saturday, July 9, 2011.
Credits: Sara A. Fajardo/Catholic Relief Services
On 9 July 2011 a new nation is born: South Sudan.
The people of South Sudan have new opportunities for development and peace after decades of conflict, poor governance and natural disasters. But they face huge challenges too that will require full support of the international community to overcome.
Civil conflict left more than two million people dead and forced around five million people from their homes. Infrastructure is very weak and most people have limited or no access to services like health, education, water and sanitation.
Caritas has a long engagement in South Sudan through the local Catholic Church. Now, Caritas members have joined together again along with dioceses under one programme to support the country to meet the extensive needs of people.