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16/11/2018

ASI sponsors launch of book on South Sudan

Adam Smith International is proud to support the launch of a book on the turbulent history of South Sudan, the world’s youngest and most fragile nation.

ASI was a host for the launch of First Raise A Flag: How South Sudan Won the Longest War but Lost the Peace, an acclaimed book by journalist Peter Martell, who has reported from the region for the BBC, AFP and other news organisations, over three decades.

ASI has taken an active role in the long effort of nation-building in South Sudan, helping to establish centre of government institutions and democratic processes, only to see them fall apart in the chaos of civil war.

ASI’s sponsorship of the book launch was recognition of the need for the story of South Sudan to be told through the journalistic eye and accessible writing of someone as knowledgeable as Peter Martell, said ASI Director Robin George.

He also paid tribute to Francis Scopas, a colleague who died in gunfire at a roadblock in 2016. Francis handled operations for ASI in Juba and also did extensive volunteer work in his community.

The book was launched at an event on 15 October at Lambeth House hosted by Tim Morris, former British ambassador to South Sudan, and alongside leaders from the Church, government, parliament, aid sector and think tanks who have followed the political situation in South Sudan, which ranks at the bottom of the ‘fragile states’ index, and is the most dangerous country in the world to be an aid worker. Currently there are warnings of a second manmade famine just one year on since the last.

Information on the book and author

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