Differences we appreciate in Juba

 We are looking forward to returning to Juba in a few weeks, particularly reconnecting with friends and colleagues. Beyond the people, we wanted to share a few things that we enjoy or appreciate about life in Juba that are very different from life in the U.S.:

1. Easy and available public transport. No apps, cards, registrations, or monthly fees. Just flag down a rickshaw or bus and go!

2. Greeting people (even strangers) along the road as you walk or while in the market

3. Venders who walk the road selling their wares. Need a broom, some peanuts, a suitcase or a new pair of underwear? Just wait for someone to walk by selling what you need. Definitely not an easy business to do, as these venders have to keep moving. We appreciate their hard work and ingenuity.

This young man is selling shoes

(photo taken through the bars of a veranda on the road)

One girl's basket of roasted peanuts and sesame cakes for sale.

4. Tea shops along the road. Watch the world go by as you have your tea. These shops might be just a few chairs by the side of the road, but can be an important place for neighbors or friends to connect, play chess, or hear the neighborhood news. And, of course, when it is hot in the afternoon, one way to cool down is to drink hot tea! :) 

Mary, preparing tea at her stall in our neighborhood.

5. The expanded view of time. We admire that South Sudanese are rarely 'rushed' like Americans are. I have been asked "why are you walking so fast?" as I try to save time. Yes, sometimes a 3-hour long church service is tiring, but we do appreicate that they savor the time in worship and connecting. As they say, "Americans have watches, but Africans have time."

6. The Nile River - The Nile passes through Juba on its long journey north through Sudan and Egypt to reach the Meditteranean. The Nile provides water for much of the city of Juba, and we often see the water trucks loading up near the river. The lush green trees and the shorebirds near the river provide a refreshing place for a quick recharge in Juba.  

We hope you are inspired by some of these differences. What stands out to you? Any questions about other aspects of life in Juba? We would love to hear your thoughts!