By Chol D. Johnson
The Muslim community in Juba has received Ramadan food aid packages from the Turkish people in a humanitarian gesture aimed at supporting vulnerable families during the holy month.
The food distribution was organized by the Embassy of Turkey in Juba in collaboration with the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA).
The initiative targeted vulnerable Muslim families in Juba, providing essential food items including cooking oil and other staples.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, Turkish Ambassador Mertin Ergin assured that the people of Turkey stand in solidarity with the people of South Sudan.
“Please be assured that the people of Turkey will continue to stand with the people of South Sudan to the best of their ability,” Ergin said.
He emphasized the historical ties between the Turkish people and the people of South Sudan and Sudan, noting that support and cooperation have existed for centuries regardless of religion.
“We are brothers and sisters connected by religion and by a history that goes back centuries,” he said.
The ambassador added that Ramadan is a time when sharing becomes even more meaningful.
“The old saying that bread tastes better when shared is especially true during Ramadan, when the faithful share what they have with their brothers and sisters,” he said, extending his blessings for the holy month.
Ergin also expressed appreciation to TIKA and the Islamic Council of South Sudan for organizing the distribution.
Abdullah Sari, TIKA’s representative, said the agency has successfully implemented numerous projects in Sudan and South Sudan since its establishment, promoting friendship between Turkish, Sudanese, and South Sudanese communities.
“This project reflects the friendship between the Turkish and Sudanese people. I am very happy to be here today to distribute this food,” Sari said.
He noted that the Ramadan food packages were given as a gesture of goodwill and solidarity.
“This food comes from the hearts of the Turkish people to the hearts of the Sudanese and South Sudanese people,” he added.
Peter Ayii Deng, Deputy Secretary General and representative of the Islamic Council of South Sudan, reiterated that the Turkish government has consistently supported Muslim communities during Ramadan over the years.
“We are used to Turkey providing services to us during Ramadan. We have received a lot of support from Turkish institutions such as TIKA, Diyanet, and other organizations,” Ayii said.
He acknowledged Turkey’s continued support to South Sudan at both community and government levels, describing it as long-standing and impactful.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the assistance, saying it came at a critical time.
Abdulhaj Soliman Hassan, a Sudanese Muslim living in Juba, said life has been difficult since he fled conflict in Sudan seven months ago.
“Since we came to Juba, I have struggled to feed my family. We have no relatives here,” he said, adding that his wife has been ill and unable to receive treatment due to financial challenges.
Another beneficiary, Abdullah Deng Dut, also thanked the Turkish people for supporting vulnerable Muslim families during Ramadan.
“I sincerely appreciate the Turkish people for distributing Ramadan food packages to Muslim communities in South Sudan,” he said.
The humanitarian assistance comes as many families in Juba continue to face economic hardship, making such support vital during the holy month of fasting and reflection.