Sudan Director Jo-Ann Brant

The conflict and immense human tragedy in Darfur, Western Sudan, has attracted the attention of the media and touched the hearts of many people who want to do something to help. Recently, SIM Sudan's Acting Director, Jo-Ann Brant, explained SIM's response to this crisis.

Do SIM missionaries work with Darfur refugees?

Yes. Many are arriving to the Sherkole Refugee Camp in Ethiopia where we have a number of SIM missionaries working. There in the refugee camp, the missionaries are free to share the Gospel and help with the huge needs.

Does SIM offer any help to the people of Darfur?

Yes. Fellowship for African Relief (FAR) is an outreach of SIM Canada. Although FAR does not have SIM missionaries on the ground in Darfur, they are providing humanitarian help.

Will SIM Sudan deploy missionaries into Darfur?

No. The door is wide open in Southern Sudan. SIM missionaries are in five areas of Southern Sudan sharing the Gospel. Already over 100 people have come to faith and are being discipled. Our missionaries are meeting educational, health, water, and HIV and AIDS needs in a program called Rebuilding Southern Sudan: Church and Nation. Darfur is clearly a closed door at this time. It is under the control of the Islamic northern government and entry is restricted. SIM has a clean record of being legal in our activities and work in both north and south Sudan, and we will keep it that way.

What is currently reported in the news about Darfur happened for 22 years in Southern Sudan. Millions died and even more were displaced. A peace agreement was reached in January 2005, and many people are streaming home from refugee camps in other countries. SIM has a multicultural team legally working in South Sudan. We are working to rebuild a whole generation who has grown up only knowing war.

Is SIM needed on the ground in Darfur at this time?

No. But God has others who are in Darfur. We have heard many reports of Christian soldiers from the Organization of African Unity taking the opportunities to share the love of Christ with the Darfurians. Other "stealth" groups are doing what they can, but that is not SIM Sudan's calling to work "under the radar." We are committed to the work of Rebuilding Southern Sudan and will continue with the work God has given us to do there.

How can I help?

SIM Sudan is looking for pioneering people willing to live and work in difficult conditions. If you have training in medicine, education, project management, or a desire to strengthen the Sudanese church, we can use you.

See the Sudan Opportunities List