Catholic Bishops in Sudan Planning to Revive Caritas after Nine-Year Dormancy

Caritas Sudan was operational before the country split into two nations, with South Sudan breaking away through a referendum vote that led to her secession in July 2011.

Caritas Sudan offices that were previously hosted in Sudan’s Khartoum Archdiocese, according to the SCBC official, were moved to South Sudan’s capital, Juba following the 2011 secession.

“All those we were working with moved to Juba, some of them left the work and joined other organizations,” Fr. Kacho sai, adding, “The Bishops in Sudan here have been thinking of reopening this office of Caritas because of its importance in the life of the Church here in Sudan.”

Explaining the need for the presence of the Bishops’ humanitarian wing, Fr. Kacho cited the helpless situation brought about by the Sudanese disastrous floods.

“Take the example of floods that we have been grappling within Sudan. We are unable to do anything for the people who were affected because we did not have the necessary platform to help. The idea behind reopening Caritas is to provide a platform for such humanitarian assistance,” the Cleric said.

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“Our people are really in great need of help and so this Caritas is one of the main strong means for evangelization to our people, not only by the word of God but also giving them something for their life,” the SCBC official said.

He continued, “Caritas also has a greatest importance in the country; it will not (just) be in Khartoum here but it will be extended to other Dioceses in the Sudan, reaching to all parishes.”

Fr. Kacho recalled that in the past, Caritas Sudan faced numerous obstacles in executing its mandate in the country.

“During the last regime, it was very difficult for our organizations to work. We were heavily monitored by the government security forces,” he said, and added, “But now the atmosphere is more friendly to operate.” 

He further said, “We are already in collaboration with Caritas South Sudan and they helped us with the ideas in terms of relationship and working together.”

Mary Ajith, Director for Catholic Radio Network (CRN) contributed to this story.