Juba

As you likely have heard, we were delayed due to the crash of a Sudan Airways plane crash on the June 10th. Today we were finally able to fly out. I have to say, it was a little weird seeing the remnants of the plane crash just before take off. It was still on the tarmac and they were in the process of removing it. I am happy to be flying with the UN.

I have been told by several people in Khartoum that Juba is nice. Bullshit. I hate to say it, but it is a shit hole. SHIT HOLE. Lucas if you’re reading this ignore the SHIT part please and don’t tell all your friends that I said the S word. I think most people think it is great because you can drink here, but trust me, it’s not. I am here for a few days and then off to my post in Yambio. It will be more rustic, but at least I will be able to call a trailer home. I never thought I would say that. Yambio, like Torit, has issues with the LRA (Lord’s Resistance Army). They recently attacked Nubanga, a village near Yambio, where both SPLA (Sudan Peoples Liberation Army) and civilians were killed. The security level is high and if we get the opportunity to go on any long range patrols, it will be with armed security personnel.

Right now I am living at the OCHA camp in a tent. My neighbour is the SPLA headquarters. Whether this is a good thing or a bad thing is a coin toss. I’m already half eaten by mosquitoes, but it really is not that bad. I’m in a tent, it’s warm, mosquitoes, if there was an ocean it would be like another weekend in Tofino. Minus the malaria factor. Apparently everyone gets it despite taking medication. Keeping my fingers crosses. I couldn’t imagine getting a fever in this heat.
Right now I am under a tent in the OCHA camp eating area watching the Netherlands kick France in the Ass. With Italy, France, and Germany on the fence, I think this could be a good year for Portugal. Sorry Kelly, but the gloves are off and I don’t want Germany to face Portugal in the final. A few photos of Juba for your perusal. Here for a few days of security training then off to Yambio on Monday. Looks like no more UEFA for me once I’m there. Hopefully I’ll have a decent enough internet connection to see the highlights. Take care my friends. Viva Portugal!!! It’s our year. Stand back and observe.

Cheers,

Gonzo...Kelly, who you calling little?




My tent at OCHA













Hey Frenchy...Plan B