In October I spent three days at Yida Camp, the home to some 68,000 refugees from the Nuba Mountains. The camp, in Unity State, South Sudan, is close to the border and became a sanctuary for the Nuba people who had to flee from their homes because of the genocidal jihad being waged against them by the government of Sudan. The Samaritan’s Purse staff at Yida graciously hosted me in their compound.
I have much to say about my time at Yida. In future writings I will share what I learned as I spoke to camp residents, the Pastors’ Council, the Refugee Council, and the staff of Samaritan’s Purse. I will also present the critical issues that I believe those of us who are or who wish to be advocates for Sudan’s marginalized people need to continue to push with our own government.
But for now, in order to introduce you to the refugee camp, there are 16 things I learned at Yida that I want to share.
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Comment by Pam on November 20, 2013 at 7:08 pm
Thank you for a great window into Nuba people at Yida refugee camp in South Sudan.
Comment by Faith McDonnell on November 21, 2013 at 2:55 pm
I’m glad to be able to share it with you, Pam, and I count myself privileged to have been there. More to come!
Comment by Debi on November 21, 2013 at 2:51 pm
I really appreciate the photo journal as the way to provide a small glimpse of what life looks like within the camp and look forward to reading more about the conversations you had with the Nuba people.
Comment by Faith McDonnell on November 21, 2013 at 2:54 pm
Thanks so much, Debi! It was really wonderful. Strange to say about a refugee camp, but the people are so resilient and courageous. I love them.
Comment by Faith McDonnell on November 22, 2013 at 11:53 am
In case we forget: THIS is why the Nuba people are at Yida Refugee Camp. Graphic video: Children bombed by Sudan government in Nuba Mts #ObamasStainedLegacy @pfeiffer44 @huffpostworld @AFP http://bit.ly/1e4mBkK