Referendum
Overview
The Obakki Foundation drilled and rehabilitated 40 pumps, playing a key role in a pivotal vote.
Launched
January 2010
Project Type
Clean Water
Introduction
At the end of 2010, after more than 40 years of civil war, the people of South Sudan were granted the opportunity to vote for independence. Over 800,000 displaced southerners began the long walk home, most with little food or water, to take their place at the polls.
It was truly remarkable to see how far the South Sudanese would go for the right to decide their future, but the local government was concerned that resources were already taxed by decades of conflict. There was no water to give their people. Millions of voters, many exhausted and malnourished from their journey, would have to stand in line for days in relentless heat without a drop to drink. The governor of Lakes State declared a water emergency two weeks before voting was set to begin, putting the entire process in jeopardy.
The referendum would only be considered valid if at least 60% of the population cast a ballot. The Obakki Foundation met with local government officials and got to work. In five days 40 water pumps at the polling stations were rehabilitated. Between January 9 and 15, the people of South Sudan voted overwhelmingly for independence.
"A true friend is one who comes to you when you are sick. In our time of need, when our freedom was at stake, you were the only one who came. - CHOL TONG MAYAY, Governor of Lakes State
Gallery
Video journals
IMPACT
South Sudan became the continent's newest nation on July 9th, 2011
Obakki Foundation supported the transition by drilling clean water wells.
40 wells drilled and rehabilitated in five days
Obakki Foundation deployed 11 crews of water technicians throughout out the State
In January 2011, 99% of voters in Southern Sudan voted to split from the north
40 wells drilled and rehabilitated in five days
In January 2011, 99% of voters in Southern Sudan voted to split from the north
Obakki Foundation deployed 11 crews of water technicians throughout out the State
Donate
For any contribution you make, the full amount of your donation goes directly to our humanitarian work in Africa. So every dollar that is donated to our life-saving projects makes an impact, giving people the resources they need to thrive.
Donate
When you donate to our general funding, we prioritize by investing in the most dire causes first. This way, you can be sure your money is going where it’s needed most.Where does my money go?
For any contribution you make, the full amount of your donation goes directly to our humanitarian work in Africa. So every dollar that is donated to our life-saving projects makes an impact, giving people the resources they need to thrive.