Driving a vehicle in South Sudan, even in the capital city of Juba, can be quite a challenge. It takes more than a driver’s license to be a safe driver.   There are road hazards beyond those commonly found in the United States (texting, road rage, and toll booths).  Driving in South Sudan requires diligence and preparedness where car-jacking and even roadside incendiary devices are not uncommon.  One has to be careful to not only stay on marked ‘safe’ areas of the road when driving; but also carefully pick your spot when parking (i.e. backing into parking places for a prompt departure if necessary).

Of course, there are humorous road hazards as well.   When herds of cattle head out to graze in the early morning they travel the same roads…even in the city, and hardly stop to look both ways before crossing.   Just last week there was an incident between a goat and a vehicle… the goat was found to be at fault, though the driver was encouraged to pay the owner the value of the goat nonetheless.

We have several drivers who take care of the daily movement of people and material.  One of those is a man named Philip Nyeko Darious.  Philip began his driving career when Bill and I first arrived over a year ago.  Initially quiet and a bit timid, he has become increasingly confident and adept as he takes on his daily tasks.  He also has a keen sense of humor.  The other day he narrowly missed a cat which came darting across the road and then scampered back.   Pulling back into our lane, Phillip remarked, “That cat has a good brake!”    We recently sent Philip to a training program on driving safety and security protocols.  Philip returned to work the next day with copies of his training materials, anxious to share with others what he had learned.   He told us with pride how he had been selected to lead a session for some of the ‘lesser experienced’ drivers.   He showed off his certificate with a beaming smile and said, “thank you for making me even better to serve you”.   We thank staff members such as Phillip for not only the contribution he makes to our work  in South Sudan,  but for the contribution he makes to the country itself as South Sudan transitions from a post-conflict status to a leader amongst nations…….. just as Phillip has become a leader amongst his peers.