Boma Report: March 5, 2014

SNATCHED FROM THE JAWS OF DEATH

The girls in their new found home. Back row, standing from left to right: Kaka, Salome (foster mother), Vincent (Boma Project co-coordinator), Bakhita (in black T-shirt). Front row from left to fight: Nabolo, (squatting), and Alima (in red Blouse).

Having had several first-hand experiences, in the past, of what the consequences of conflict and violence can be, Alima, Bakhita, Kaka, and Nabolo would not procrastinate on what to do when violence recently broke out in South Sudan. In February last year, they witnessed three of their classmates at Faith Learning Centre, shot and killed by a lone gunman. During the Yau Yau rebellion in May last year, several people in their village were killed; in fact Kaka witnessed the shooting and killing of her brother by armed men. These are just but a few of the many such traumatizing experiences they have gone through, young as they are.

It is not surprising, then, that when violence recently broke out in their country they trekked hundreds of kilometers without food and water in the wild jungle between Boma and Kapoeta. Miraculous! Like everybody else they had to run for their dear lives and in the process getting separated from their families, and becoming part of the large number of South Sudanese from Jonglei State seeking refuge in Kenya. At Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya, they came face-to-face with the very enemy they were fleeing from: death – but this time round, not by the bullet but by hunger, starvation and ill health. Lile Machi, who, like the girls, was also fleeing the violence, informed me about the hungry and sick young girls in the refugee camp.

At the time of their rescue in late January, they were in a seriously bad state of health; also, their physical and emotional wellbeing was wanting.  They have since been given adequate medical care and regained good health. The love and care from their foster parents have healed them both spiritually and emotionally. They are now a settled and happy lot. We give thanks and all glory to the Lord God, Almighty for the supporters of SEA Partners who have been instrumental in saving and transforming lives through their generous donations and prayers.

Be aware that your prayers, financial donation and or contribution in whatever manner has made and continues to make a huge difference and will surely be rewarded in eternity. May the Almighty God make you exceedingly fruitful even as you are a blessing others.

HENRY OKUMU

African Director,

SEAPartners

PS. The cost of supporting each girl is $70 per month. Please consider an online gift to provide food, clothing, healthcare and an education for these young ladies.