The First Phase of Floods in Maban
By Lawrence Mutunga,SJ
It is a time of the year when Upper Nile State is affected by a series of floods that continue until November. The dramatic climate changes recorded worldwide have also impacted this region. This year, Renk and Maban are expected to be hit particularly hard due to heavy rains in Eastern African countries and the Ethiopian Highlands. The first phase of the floods has already occurred, displacing many people from their homes. Many of the displaced have sought refuge outside the JRS compound, which is somewhat elevated. The initial cycle of floods has also affected our compound, with water flowing into the premises, leading to the postponement of the opening dates for the teachers’ training program.
The floods have significantly disrupted pastoral activities, with only a few outstations remaining accessible due to bad roads and the poor condition of JRS vehicles used for travel to various outstations for Mass. During the flood season, St. Mark Catholic Church becomes barely accessible, forcing us to celebrate Mass at the primary school, which is several kilometres away from the church.
Those from the host community displaced by floods remain stranded due to lack of essentials like drinking water, blankets, plastic sheets and some other NFIs. Most of the people lack mosquito nets and hence remain vulnerable to Malaria which is the order of the day this season.
Effects of the Economic Crisis in Maban
The economic situation in South Sudan has been very unstable, with a severe devaluation of the pound against the dollar. This has caused immense hardship for both refugees and the host community, as market prices for basic commodities have skyrocketed. Many families are struggling to provide food for their households, leading to a rise in petty crime as people try to meet basic needs. St. Mark Catholic Church has fallen victim to theft twice, with thieves breaking in and stealing all the priest vestments, altar linens, Mass servers’ vestments, liturgical dancers’ vestments, and the chairs used by the priest and Mass servers. Although the thieves opened the tabernacle, fortunately, they did not tamper with the Body of Christ. This has left the church struggling to celebrate the Eucharist, as the parishioners are unable to replace the stolen items. We are praying and hoping that we will either recover the stolen items or receive replacements, Inshahallah.
Developments on the Jesuit Land
On a positive note, we are pleased to announce that we have secured the ownership papers and boundary beacons for the Jesuit land given by the community. Once developed, this land will be a significant beacon of hope for the young generation of refugees and the host community, as an educational centre is crucial for their brighter future.
