There is jubilation in the streets of what might become the world’s newest capital city. The streets are humming with crowds, marching bands, and sound trucks. Some 3.9 million people, out of a total population of 8.7 million, have signed up to vote in the week-long referendum, which begins this weekend. Independence awaits! But underneath the excitement are a variety of economic and governing problems.
Southern Sudan has no paved roads outside the capital. About half the population relies on food aid. 60% can’t read. At the University of Juba, students share beds and carry water in buckets from a tanker truck to the dorm.
But hopefully with independence, things can improve. The international community needs to stay focused and can assist with development in the long term. One thing that has made matters better is that the threat of violence from the north has decreased in the weeks leading up to the election. Earlier this week, Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir gave a rare speech in Juba: “I am going to celebrate your decision, even if your decision is secession.”
After the vote the hard part begins. The South and North need to discuss a variety of issues, including how to split oil revenues, share water, and deal with migration and citizenship. The Southern government needs to get organized quickly.
photo courtesy of NPR
