Transportation - do we think about the challenges?

TRANSPORTATAION.... When I was growing up transportation was primarily by car or bus. I found it fascinating once I learned that many cities have public buses and trains, although the presence of cars has multiplied throughout my lifetime. Everyone thinks they need a car for everything....we've lost the art of walking, except for healthy exercise. In South Sudan, as in most of Africa, the primary means of transport is walking! Buses, vans, and motorcycles called Bodas are available but, sadly, more expensive! Private cars are few but growing in number. Two flights a week come into Yei from Uganda through Eagle Air, but the expense limits its use. Roads are not paved - only 40 miles are reportedly paved in all of this new country. Rains can turn the dirt roads into small lakes and mud - slowly ALL forms of movement. No matter what form of transportation is available, difficult roads make it hard for those who want to sell in the market, or for those who need food or supplies for daily living. This week we were blessed with another first! Rather than traveling slowly 100 miles over the poor road to Juba for more than 5 hours, we were allowed to ride on a UNMISS helicopter! The flight was only 45 minutes and offered a superb view of the land between Yei and Juba. The Russian helicopter piloted by an Ukrainian crew added to the international experience for us. The United Nations is very active in South Sudan - the staff in Yei are Canadian, Nepali, Indian, and South Sudanese! Our world is growing smaller - travel becomes easier for many, TV and internet connect us so quickly to cultures and peoples who seem very different on the outside, yet are created by our God and hope for a better life for themselves and their families, just like us! I recognize once again the privilege it is for us to serve in this place - to walk side by side with our brothers and sisters here in South Sudan and share the love of Jesus every day. God has blessed us richly!