South Sudanese should strive towards their own growth in order to attain sustained development for the new country.
The challenge comes from Kees Schilder, the Africa Program Officer for a Dutch NGO operating in Lakes State.He told Good News Radio that having gained independence, South Sudanese are now the actors of their own lives and should begin taking responsibility for their own development.
Mr. Schilder discouraged the continuation of an attitude of dependency on donors saying it would amount to irresponsibility.
Mr. Schilder said people need peace of mind to overcome the traumatic experiences caused by many years of armed conflict.
He added that his organization is committed to working with local partners on trauma healing, a reality that has been neglected by many organizations operating in South Sudan.
Mr. Schilder praised the vital role of catechists to sustain the faith of the people during the wartime.
He promised that his organization will continue to support the formation of catechists in the Catholic diocese of Rumbek.
The Dutch organization is inspired by the Catholic faith and aims at promoting justice and peace in Africa, Asia and Latin America, by supporting small-scale initiatives at the grassroots to empower the vulnerable in collaboration with local partners.