Standing Tall

Although Sudan’s North-South civil war “ended” in 2005, its impact is still being felt by many.

Approximately 80,000 people in Southern Sudan are in need of artificial limbs – the majority the result of gunshots, leftover mines, and shells.

Take Akuch Ajak Bol, who at age 9, had his leg amputed due to an infection caused by inadequate medical treatment.

Fortunately, through efforts of the Southern Sudanese government and the International Committee of the Red Cross, this little boy is walking again after the receipt of an artificial leg.

A rehabilitation center is currently being constructed in Juba, the capital of Southern Sudan. Still, aid workers believe it would take 40 years to help all those in need of limbs for bodies damaged by war.

Akuch Ajak Bol’s story is uplifting, yes. However, at the same time, it is a reminder that wars do not necessarily “end” when the fighting stops.

When you drop something, you must pick up the pieces.