Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
In the beginning of July, Alek Wek, a South Sudanese supermodel, traveled to South Sudan with the UNHCR to celebrate its one year independence. MSNBC’s Melissa Harris-Perry had the opportunity to interview Alek Wek about her experience in South Sudan. Since South Sudan is a newly independent country, they must obtain natural resources such as oil. However, to acquire that oil, South Sudanese citizens must travel through Sudan, meaning through north Sudanese pipelines. Harris-Perry questioned Alek about the oil situation.
“I think it’s like the oil it’s — it’s a blessing, but also it’s a curse. And I’m not into politics, but I think in order to do anything, there needs to be peace and going back for the one-year anniversary of the independence. I never thought that would come growing up in the civil war.” – Alek Wek
Alek discussed with Harris-Perry how difficult the conflict between South Sudan and Sudan has been. She acknowledged that South Sudan had demanding challenges ahead of them because they are an incredibly young country.
“Absolutely. Like I said, you know, it’s a new country which means new nation, new government, new everything. You have to consider there is going to be challenges.” – Alek Wek
Alek’s experiences in South Sudan were unprecedented. While in South Sudan, an elderly woman inspired Alek by “tak[ing] care of her grandchildren with no complaints.” The remainder of her interview with Harris-Perry contextualizes the events she witnessed.
You can help the Sudanese obtain clean water by donating here, or texting REFUGEES to 50555 today!
Syria Refugee Crisis: Please Help
Get Your Blue Key!
Order Your Blue Key!
Raise Your Voice!
