03/06/2008

"The problem is just beginning; We need help so we can restart our lives here," an exasperated woman said from her southern Sudanese village of Malualbai.  After nearly 20 years of exile from one of Africa's worst civil wars, she is finally home. "But now we don't have food to eat," she said.

In nearby Wedweil, a woman sat by the beginnings of the women's center they have tried to build - a roofless structure made of handmade bricks - but the women have no access to the tools or materials to build their roof. "All we want is to be self-sufficient, but when the rains start in April, our building will collapse."

This Saturday, March 8th, is International Women's Day - a day dedicated to celebrating the role that women like these play in making history. Refugees International continues to honor the women we meet around the world by demanding world leaders to urgently respond to their needs.

The women of south Sudan are now facing unimaginable hardship. In honor of them, will you donate generously to support Refugees International's efforts?

Just a few weeks ago, Refugees International met with several south Sudanese women who, along with their families, have returned home after 20 years of war. Some 2 million Sudanese have come back to their villages following a peace agreement in 2005.  They arrived with hope, but are now living with little to no access to clean water, food, shelter, health services and education. Some are victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Women here are extremely vulnerable, but remarkably strong in their commitment to rebuilding their communities. For progress to be made, women must contribute their tremendous potential to assist in rebuilding their homes and villages.  But they rarely receive the opportunity.

Refugees International is pushing for the Government of Southern Sudan and the international community to provide support to local women's groups - such as access to adult literacy and civic education, to small business and vocational training and to micro-credit.

Will you support our efforts?

These groups need to be given the tools to become self-sufficient and feed their families. They need funding and materials to complete their women's centers. They need protection from violence. Most of all, they need recognition of their vital role in society.

Help Refugees International be a powerful, independent voice for lifesaving action for women around the world. We accept no government or United Nations funding, and are a highly effective, trusted source for solutions.

Go to www.refugeesinternational.org/donate to support our work today, and type "for women" in the comments section.

Sincerely,

Ken Bacon
President

p.s.  Click on a postcard image below to send your friends and family a special message on International Women's day, and encourage them to support our lifesaving work.