Gatbel's Report from Sudan
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A mass massacre of Akobo took place March 9, 2012. It was carried out by the Murle tribe of S Sudan toward the Lou Nuer tribe also of S Sudan. Both tribes are nomads with their lives depending on their cattle. Cattle rustling during the dry season has been going on for hundreds of years between these tribes but nothing has happened to this magnitude before.
After South Sudan gained their independence in July, 2011, North Sudan has been arming these tribes to disturb peace in this new nation.
An urgent request for medical assistance was made to Second Hope Ministries International by South Sudan local authorities and the Nuer Community Development Service in USA. SHMI sent out an appeal for medical professionals and associated organizations in the USA to respond to the critical medical needs resulting from the attacks. Dr. Tim Riesenberger, ER Physician from the NW, Dr. Joan Martin, a family physician and Gatbel Chamjock PA (both from Colorado) responded immediately.
Medical supplies were collected: 50 lb. bag of oral medications, 70 lbs of IV antibiotics, IV pain medications and surgical equipment as well as 50 lbs of activated charcoal. Some donated and some purchased.
On March 18, 2012, these three boarded airplanes to Akobo South Sudan. After delays and missed flights, they finally met up in Ethiopia where an United Nations helicopter took them to Akobo, after more problems with customs. God had directed events for SHMI to obtain a NGO (non-governmental organization) status on a previous trip. That made this trip possible. Another asset was Gatbel's ability to speak the local language.
A tour of the hospital revealed that 70 people were severely wounded. Several had minor gunshot injuries but there was not room to care for them all. They were directed to help the children and women first because they were the most affected. As they made their rounds they discovered some laying on the dirt flour, others were under trees with poor sanitation. Several children were malnourished and anemic from malaria and wounds.
They prayed with every patient and witnessed several miracles--not one death took place in the five days they were there. Several people told them that they had slept for the first time after they were prayed for. The doctors shared whatever food rations they had. This was greatly appreciated not by the patients but also their families who had lost everything during the attack.
Gatbel said "I can only thank God for this opportunity to help save my people. I also thank SHMI for their prayers and dedication to serve the Lord. I would like to than our community, Nuer Community Development Services and the local authority in Akobo for their support."
Gatbel has a desire to return and work with his people. SHMI has been given 20 acres on the Nile River to build a clinic. We solicit your prayers for God's guidance.
