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SUDAN ARCHIVE: Oct. 25 - Nov. 4, 2005

Reader Comments of the Week: Sudan II

Each week the Hot Zone team will select some of the more interesting reader comments to feature.

By Hot Zone Team, Fri Nov 4, 6:31 PM ET

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Mobile Medical, Oct. 28

"It is concerning to hear of the terrible conditions these people are returning to, but so inspiring to hear that they are wanting to return and to start again. Thank you for sharing what IS being done (well, mobile medicine) - this really shows some hope that people from other countries are being productive and that the help is reaching those who need it. I am looking forward to the next report! God bless, Veronica"

Posted by veilingon on Sat, Oct 29, 2005 3:22 AM ET

"If healthcare can be provided for 60-70 people for $500 dollars a week in this situation then why is healthcare so high in the US."

Posted by shmnova on Sat, Oct 29, 2005 4:37 PM ET

"I just can’t put much in what Sites reports on. He is an opportunist. I’m tired of these Jane Fondas that find everything good with every one but Americans. Don't encourage him."

Posted by drilltheworld on Sat, Oct 29, 2005 7:24 PM ET

"The more medical care we provide, the greater the population increase, the increased rate of famine, environmental degradation, and war. Let death take its toll and maintain the natural balance."

Posted by jonathanmfreedman on Tue, Nov 01, 2005 1:10 PM ET
"Kevin, You have helped me out a lot by going to Sudan and other African countries. I have been trying to get over there to help the people there and have not been able to but at least now I know more about what is going on there. I have been telling my friends about the hotzone and am very pleased that finally some news is getting out about these forgotten lands. I want to be able to say like Job, "I [was] a father to the poor: and the cause [which] I knew not I searched out." Thank you for helping us all with the searching."

Posted by prov297 on Sat, Oct 29, 2005 12:26 AM ET

 

One Brick at a Time, Oct. 31

"It is horror.Is Africa a zone for less human living?Cant money used in acquiring guns,and holding endless conferences be spent on these our dear poor brothers and sisters? we can car more...........Emeka ,Nigeria"

Posted by jemmydi on Tue, Nov 01, 2005 4:51 AM ET

"I'm sure that woman felt the pain of her child. What you fail to realize is that there are no organizations there to investigate an accident like the one her child suffered. Don't sit and judge this woman who was probably out in the garden or outside just trying to find enough food to feed her family. The article didn't go into detail as to whether or not she felt responsible."

Posted by ms_kidwell2004 on Tue, Nov 01, 2005 4:12 PM ET

"RE: moodymops comment that the mother bears primary responsibilty for the safety of her child. I can't disagree with that, however I do know that the mind set that allowed that situation to develop is pretty common in poor 3rd world countries. It seems to be related to the hopelessness that severe poverty induces in people. ..."

Posted by bobfeldsien@sbcglobal.net on Wed, Nov 02, 2005 10:04 AM ET

"The Sudanese people seem to be permanently or near permanently crippled by their own political and economic systems. These factors create the root problems that destroy human initiative and enlightened self-interest. We must face the fact once and for all that the purpose of the

United Nations is to protect wrong-thinking in governments, especially African governments in such a way as to condemn the people of those nations to a permanent state of extreme poverty and desparate existence. Africa is the most resource-rich of all continents and yet its people are the poorest. There is no excuse for this."

Posted by ecw47 on Wed, Nov 02, 2005 5:58 PM ET

 

Unknown 'Soldiers,' Nov. 2

"What an incredible mind set to have! Thank you everyone who is involved with the IRC. Thank you Haselwood and Steiger for giving us a glimpse into your hardwork and dedicated lives. You are true Angels and a strong inspiration of hope."

Posted by stacey_aalex on Tue, Nov 01, 2005 11:36 PM ET

"People who have no hearts at all always refer to those not similarly challenged as 'bleeding heart'. Whenever someone has to fall back on cliches, there really is no reason to pay attention to them at all. From the very first Peace Corps volunteers until now, the people who undertake these tasks return to make the countries from which they come batter in every way. Their contributions do not end with their return home. ..."

Posted by abushenob on Wed, Nov 02, 2005 10:47 AM ET

"It's true that we don't really pay attention to aid workers. Shame on us. These people are heroes, just like our troop in

Iraq. We thank God for people like Haselwood and Steiger."

Posted by neeco98 on Wed, Nov 02, 2005 9:04 PM ET

"I applaud the work of the IRC people. It is really refreshing to see that there are people who really care about humanity and will go to great lengths to help other human beings. I wish more of our business and political (I would say "leaders" but they have only demonstrated that they are brainless jackasses, bush, ken lay and hundreds of others) people in offices and businesses had a fraction of the care and humanity of IRC workers. All the best to you! If there is an afterlife, you and the people you work to help deserve a special place."

Posted by ilovediving@verizon.net on Wed, Nov 02, 2005 11:00 PM

 

Reflections from the Hot Zone: South Sudan, Nov. 3

"Really interesting report, but I was expecting to hear something about the issue of slavery in the Sudan -- especially against the Dinka peoples by Muslims from the southern region."

Posted by daross140 on Thu, Nov 03, 2005 5:31 AM ET

"I, too, have been to Rumbek recently. The lack of infrastructure is amazing and the absence of goods and services is profound. South Sudan needs everything. Yet, while the UK opens a liaison office in Rumbek to foster that country's participation in the building of South Sudan, it remains illegal for Americans to invest in South Sudan.

President Bush, just yesterday, renewed for another year an Executive Order that places a complete economic embargo upon all of Sudan, including the most desperate South. The American State Department and Congress continue to be incapable of differentiating between those culpable in Khartoum and the victims of its inhumanity. The South, which fought Khartoum for 21 years, needs help - primarily investment - not sanctions."

Posted by eastafricanet on Thu, Nov 03, 2005 8:23 AM ET

"The report sounds a little glossed-over to me. While all the elements of the report seemed to be factual, it didn't seem to really get to the heart of the matter: the distrust built up over more than 20 years of war. Sure, I have hope that the region will one day be restored. But, what about the post-Garang riots that broke out? And the continual fear of violence that has been repeatedly been reported by refugees? Believe me, I love that you are covering the area. I would just like to hear some more coverage. Keep going! God bless."

Posted by xdorky on Thu, Nov 03, 2005 8:33 AM ET

"Kevin, I would like to say that your stories are good. I must admit, that following our reflections in the hot zone is the 1st time in my life that I've paid attention to what has been going on in Sudan. I've heard things over the years, but have never taken the time to attempt to understand the struggle. I find your stories interesting & educational. Keep up the good work and know that you have made a difference in another persons life & you have been successful in educating 1 more person in this world. Good will bless you in your travels & keep the stories coming."

Posted by bunique5 on Thu, Nov 03, 2005 11:03 AM ET

 

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Comments

Join the discussion. Here you'll see the comments in the order they were posted.

1
What a nice thing to say Daniel. I can tell you one thing, human nature is at is shows we are capable of doing the very same things the dope weed chewing savages do placed in the same situations. We are all made of the same stock honey, and we all eventually go to the same place- the grave.
Posted by masnoh10161@sbcglobal.net on Thu, Nov 3, 2005 10:58 PM ET
2
First time to view the "hotzone". Looks good. I will keep viewing. Thanks
Posted by easykey33 on Fri, Nov 4, 2005 8:15 AM ET
3
Pity you didn't highlight the interesting post by sharpdrpaul (#55 under "One Brick at a Time") -- he had something new, interesting and potentially useful to say -- I had never head of "positive deviance" as a means to help people without imposing outside cultural biases upon them. Here are his/her words again: "There is a theory in nutritional interventions known as positive deviance which I believe can be utilized with all cultural and health interventions. Positive deviance looks at a community that has high morbidity /mortality rates and studies those families that are thriving in an environment where others are not. These "positive deviants" are then utilized to teach these beneficial differences (positive deviant behaviors) to the rest of the community. In this manner, there are answers that can lie within one's own community and culture and need not be imposed from outside cultures. Not only does these self-generated interventions engender greater adherence to change, more importantly it fosters independence and empowerment for a community. The notion that the answer always lies on the outside, from developed nations or solely within the domains of allopathic medicine is simply not true. In many developing nations "preventative measures" can provide the most important (outside) interventions. And I agree with others." Re-posted by Karin the Librarian kwikoff@ithaca.edu
Posted by hotstockings on Fri, Nov 4, 2005 9:33 AM ET
4
hello Kave,you're absolutely doing well,perhaps you are not aware of fate of refugees, who are in a very deplorable state in Egypt,actually women and children un-humanely spending the rest of their lives in public garden in a few meters from UN office in Cairo due to human exloitation on part of UN bureau present in Egypt...come and see it would interesting for you!
Posted by kikiborrow on Fri, Nov 4, 2005 6:15 PM ET
5
Well, today I finally clicked on your site. As a cultural anthropologist, who lives by the empirical evidence of what is, not what is perceived, or what "leaders" pontificate about, I am not sure why you are there Kevin. I know it must be two-fold, to give the people of the world an opportunity to witness this society, and two to build a resume for yourself for future books, jobs etc. Taking pictures and making comments is not sufficient. They way I see it, the great Imperialist Yankee is there, the "great white father,", well to the commentator who doesn't understand why worldwide people dislike Americans, that is one reason, you have set yourselves above humanity as if you are the know it all, solve it all, but meanwhile back at the ranch, (literally) as in the ranch that is he home to Mr. Bush, this country is now one of the most corrupt,pedophilic,criminally,undereducated asinine, and marketing/public relations driven culture in the history of the world. You have invaded Iraq, does that make you better than any of the African countries that do the same, The leader of this country lied to his cabinet to get approval and went ahead anyway without a congressional yea vote. Sounds like a dictator? Hmmn just like in Africa. Democracy you say?really, you hold persons without due process, just like in other countries, Freedom of speech?Last time I checked a univeristy professor in Virginia is still incarcerated for agreeing with Muslims. Just giving his opinion in a classroom. Corruption, the New Orleans police is well known for that, Homosexuality, bestiality, live sex acts for pleasure in public places (see the Oregonian referendum), raping of minor children, decapitationts, boy this sounds like I am talking about one of these "backward, third world nations as you'd like to think of these inhabitants. Bottom line, Africans had great kingdoms, before you came out of your caves with your conquer the world mentality, they will find themselves. Firstly Kevin, I hate to see these people in American Converse, Reebok, Tommy Hilfiger throwaways. Their own cultural dress is bright and very beautiful, allow them the dignity of their culture,by encouraginhg native dress. Even though I personally disagree with, FGM,and certain rites of passage (for men as well) I cannot impose my ethnocentric view on anyone. They live in their habitat and we live in ours. These is the country that says go do whatever the hell you want, this is not freedom it is anarchy. Personally, you can take the same photos right here in the Good ol' USA, the country of hundreds of ethnicities all bragging about their righteous "American" status. You Americans are too much in everybody else's business, you need to mind your own. Here's a list for you so get busy: future of S.S., millions without adequate health and dental care, skyrocketing housing prices, taxes , poor schools, unprepared teachers, corrupt unions, more corrupt CEO's , more corrupt politicians, a sense of again controlling the outcomes of situations where the law is broken, buying judges, judges joining the MBlA and downloading pornography, heavy metal music praising evil, rap music downgrading women, women downgrading themselves, lesbianism, same sex marriages, racial disparity and continued discrimination, child abuse, NEED I REALLY GO ON? All of you on this site, who claim "white privilege" take a good look and think critically, if you analyzed yourselves, you would be too busy with fixing the tattered tapestry that used to say "America the Beautiful." Everything that is inhumane in other countries is happening right here, in small pockets accross the great plains. The world shoud know the truth. This country has been set up as a money machine, regardless of who pulls the handle, and that is why people leave their homes, but again there are millions of Americans that just got up one day and left for good. Not through the Peace Corps, or any aid organization, they just had enough. But you don't know anything about that because "white" (lower case my intent) people are the Masters of Deceit. And yes I will be leaving, away from your profane stupid, society, you stay right here and get what's coming to you, whether your eyes are closed or open wide shut. And no, I am not going to name the @#$% ries where the quality of living is better, because I don't want you to follow. Stay right, here and keep alternating between complaining and bragging, throwing out platitudes and metaphors to control others and garner sympathy. Kevin get a real job. Thank you. Marta
Posted by nystar1881 on Sat, Nov 5, 2005 8:55 AM ET
6
To everyone, particularly nystar 1881, please notice for a moment that in EVERY government and in EVERY land people of EVERY ethnicity and people of EVERY religion are practiced in the ways of corruption, denial, violence, and greed. The fundamental elements here are humans incapable or unwilling to rise above our primal thoughts and fears. But what you choose to ignore so readily is that in EVERY government and in EVERY land people of EVERY ethnicity and people of EVERY religion are also doing good work to further great ideals like education, safety, peace, health, quality of life, and more. If you are unable to rise above your own anger about what you see as injustice, how can you act to change anything without violence of word or hand? I suggest you examine your own motivations before thrashing the good work of others. Even though Kevin receives professional benefits for covering the Hot Zones, he also sheds light on the injustices of long forgotten or denied peoples. Until we are able to see the good in every action, and focus less on being angry about how each action falls short, we will accomplish nothing. Everything that is done, is done in increments. If you spend all of your time arguing about how progess should be made, no progress will ever be made. To Kevin, the IRC workers, and "bleeding heart do-gooders" everywhere I say, inch by inch you can go miles. Keep inching along.
Posted by mgulotta on Sat, Nov 5, 2005 10:48 AM ET
7
Thank you Kevin for putting a face on this. Thank you for being there. MSay
Posted by maggiesay2003 on Sat, Nov 5, 2005 11:24 AM ET
8
Found article and comments very thought provoking. Thanks. I'll be back. astat
Posted by astat2929 on Sat, Nov 5, 2005 12:01 PM ET
9
i agree with what you are saying. we have celebrities who make millions of dollars yearly. my neighbor done the street is having trouble paying some bills of her own. she is better than these celebs. a mother of 3, student, wife and works. if each one of them helps out in their own community US BLACK FOLKS would make it out of the land NOT. USA has done nothing for us and i think it is about time that they fess up. why do you think these things are happening in the world. repent america and set us free, once and for all.
Posted by onyxgyrl28 on Sat, Nov 5, 2005 9:05 PM ET
10
I dont know why, you people never talk about any good thing happening about Africa. In your countries there are worse things happening, but you close your eyes on it. What has Africa and the people of Africe done to you. Africa will never be as it is now. Our time will come. God bless my fathers land Africa.
Posted by charlestieku on Sat, Nov 5, 2005 9:54 PM ET

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in memoriam

The Kevin Sites in the Hot Zone team dedicates this site to Marla Ruzicka, a fearless voice of compassion, who was killed in Iraq on April 16, 2005, while trying to lessen the suffering of others. For more information, see Civic Worldwide.