A catastrophic earthquake struck Turkey and Syria on February 6th, 2023. Measuring a massive 7.8 magnitude, it caused widespread devastation across both countries. Thousands of buildings crumbled, leaving a tragic toll of over tens of thousands of lives lost.

There are quite a few markets in Juba. Konyo Konyo is certainly among the more famous and bigger ones in town.
The amount of economic activity going on in such a small space is mind-blowing. All kinds of items from shoes, clothes, hardware, kitchen utensils and bamboo are being sold. Bargaining and negotiations are an intrinsic part of markets in Juba. 

The time, place, and especially the light were simply perfect for some good black-and-white shots. Let your eyes be guided by high contrast and fascinating textures. 

Note: The people who are identifiable in the pictures are friends of our rubber rope suppliers. No photos were taken without consent.

Pope Francis came to South Sudan at the beginning of February 2023. The visit was accompanied by much excitement and attention. 

A church from the central part of the country decided to do a pilgrimage to Juba for the arrival of the pope.  A group of people walked several hundred kilometres to welcome Pope Francis to South Sudan. We were lucky enough to meet those people on their last steps before they would reach the suburbs of Juba. 

The vast swamp in South Sudan is called "the Sudd". Especially during rainy season, the Nile Basin gets covered in water and the floods seem endless. 

Leer is a remote location in the bush of South Sudan. Having a base in Leer makes it easier to reach people in surrounding areas, such as Dindin.

For more information about Leer and Dindin check out this post.

Gudele North is a lively suburb of Juba, home to a mix of families, traders, and young entrepreneurs. Its markets bustle with vendors selling fresh produce, street food, and everyday goods. Life here moves at its own rhythm, with neighbors gathering outside their homes and children playing along the dusty streets. The strong sense of community defines Gudele North, where people support each other through daily challenges and celebrations alike.

As part of my work in South Sudan, I am involved in a research project.
In collaboration with the University of Juba and the Structural Xploration Lab (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne) we are developing a design for a flood resilient shelter.

The pictures are from a prototype testing session at the University of Juba and another session with the Emergency Response Team at the NGO base.

The NGO base in South Sudan is called Whiskey Juliet. Nobody seems to remember where that name came from originally. We have a big rooftop terrace, which can only be used early in the morning and late evenings, because of the strong sun and unbearable heat during the day.

It is difficult to take pictures up there because of the limiting restrictions regarding photography. 

Juba is the biggest city in South Sudan. It is the newest capital worldwide, with an estimate population of 500,000+ (2017). 

Unfinished skeletons of concrete reaching towards the sky, walls and barbed wire shape the built environment.
Most streets in Juba are dirt roads. During rainy season they get flooded, which turns the streets into a big muddy mess, with puddles so big they could be used a swimming pool. Many locals walk or take their motorcycle to move around. Organizations and the government usually stick to their big 4×4 trucks. Goats, cows, cats, dogs, and other animals are very common as well.