|
MAF has been based in Sudan twice
over the past 60 years. On both occasions, we
were forced to withdraw because of the ongoing war between the north and south.
Over recent years, we have
flown aircraft into southern Sudan from bases in Kenya and then,
Uganda.
Following the peace agreement that
was signed in January 2005, we have been investigating a return to
Sudan, with the hope of once again establishing a permanent base for flight operations.
We thank God that our new base is now being
established in Juba, a former garrison town of the northern Sudanese
Government and now the capital of southern Sudan.
The signs of decades of war still
hang heavy over the town – rusting twisted chasses of army trucks
litter the narrow streets of the old town. In spite of these
trappings of war, there’s a tangible sense of optimism washing
through what is essentially little more than a bush town.
We have negotiated with the
Episcopal Church of Sudan for a piece of land on which together with
World Relief we will establish accommodation and offices. There is
considerable work to be done in building, renovating and
establishing premises while the Sudan team live in temporary
situations.
Longer-term, we intend to
establish a compound water supply and electricity backup supply and
to build a hangar and engineering facilities.
Several NGOs and the UN have moved
into Juba, and the Government of Southern Sudan is operating from
there. Gradually missions and NGOs are moving their Sudan operations
fully into the country. As these NGO's rely on MAF to support their
work, there is an increasing need to quickly become established.
In these early days much revolves
around getting permissions and infrastructure in place to allow the
eventual basing of planes and staff in the town. As people pour into
town, it is also a time for establishing relationships.
As of 18 May, MAF is registered as
an NGO with the Government of Southern Sudan.
As partner requirements for MAF to
operate aviation services increase, flights will commence from Juba
later this year with pilots staying overnight in Juba or elsewhere
in southern Sudan. Until then, flights for Sudan
are continuing from Loki, Kenya, and Kampala, Uganda.
|
