S.Sudan Cessation Victory Means a Lot More

                                                                                               By Nyagaka Nyakundi

If  Southern Sudan successfully pulls away from the north,, then that eventuality  would be   the  latest development in the world  history of nationalism.In many ways, the prospect is similar to the re-establishment of  Poland  years after it was  annexed by its  greedy European counterparts in the run-up to the second world war.

Further,it would sound reprieve to millions South Sudanese,scattered in all directions of the world as a result of war occasioned  by unending disputes  to become what is now euphemistically referred to as 'S.Sudanese in the diaspora'.From their horrendous accounts and testimonies it is apparent that the southerners have over the years been victims of oppression and marginalization.

The northern region ,led by President El Bashir,has been widely blamed for   using   resources to develop Khartoum at he expense of the southern part.The voting was largely inspired  by this belief.

Initial results currently indicate an overwhelming  support for a  break-up with over 70 per cent of those who cast their votes   rooting for an independent South Sudan.Asked about their feelings about the moment and the possibility of establishing their own country,the southerners display emotional optimism.They cannot imagine staying as part of the north.

While casting his vote at Juba on first referendum day,  the leader of the south briefly recounted the long journey to the cessation vote which began with the arduous negotiations in Kenya.However,it was clear that  peace cannot be compromised.

As witnessed,all eyes are now on South Sudan.And there are many reasons for this.One of the possible reasons could be the region's enormous resource endowment.Besides oil and  a myriad of other minerals,S.Sudan boasts fertile soils and a climate that supports Agriculture,putting her  at a greater possibility of becoming the latest African economic hub.


Abyei,rich in oil deposits,lies on the border between the two regions.The north has already indicated a possible war if the south does not let go of it.However,Abyei will go to the ballot soon to decide where it belongs.This is one of the hurdles the leaders of a possible independent S.Sudan are mulling over.

For the rest of the world,S.Sudan remains a pleasant anticipation that is expected to end bloodshed.,