Tribute to Dr. John Garang de Mabior

As the world celebrates the third anniversary of the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in Sudan it also commemorates the third anniversary of the death of one of the agreement's primary architects, the late Dr. John Garang. Seen as an icon and inspiration by millions of Sudanese and Africans the world over, Dr. Garang's death just 21 days after his inauguration as First Vice President of Sudan and President of Southern Sudan will remain one of the most painful moments in African history.

That a herdsboy who grew up as a peasant in the little known county of Bor, could rise and capture the imagination of his people, bring their plight to the world stage, engage in high - powered politics with world leaders, while leading one of Africa's longest struggles is indicative of the sheer wealth of talent and drive that exists among the continents people.

A full time soldier - diplomat, statesman, militant, father and husband, this giant who strode the globe like a towering collossus, still managed to accomplish himself as a scholar, having obtained a Phd in agricultural economics from Iowa State University. Here was a man who left audiences the world over in awe with his use of complex mathematical equations to explain the dynamics of the conflict in his country and solution modalities. He was famed for his drive and determination. Many still wonder how he found the time to author heaps upon heaps of documents. His famous venn diagrams depicting different scenarios and options for settling the Sudan conflict became the basis for crafting the special political arrangements that shaped the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.

If "Dr. John" as he is fondly known by those who had the privilege of knowing him was famous for his complexity, razor sharp intellect, political skills and volumnous stamina, he was even more famous for his simplicity and humaness. The story goes that in the heat of battle, he would stuff meat that he had personally cooked in the pockets of his soldiers on the front line in order to encourage them. During his lifetime he recieved endless youth delegations and personally mentored students from all corners of the world. And yet on the ocassional Saturday morning, one would be surprised to find him watching cartoons with his children. On one of several websites created in his honour, a 16 year old Swiss girl describes him as "the hero of my youth".

"Peace will bless us once more by hearing the happy giggling of children and the enchanting ululations of women who are excited in happiness for one reason or another" is what he said on the ocassion of the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.

Such emotion, coupled with his human touch, great sense of humour, compassion and humility is a little known aspect of Dr. John's legacy. This might be explained by the overwhelming focus by analysts and biographers alike on his political and military career, and the success and controversy that shape public perception of historical leaders of his mold including Mozambique's Eduardo Mondlane, South Africa's Oliver Tambo and Burundi's Louis Rwagasore - all of whom never saw the dawn of freedom that they worked so hard to achieve in their respective countries.

There is however, a positive dimension to the tragic death of John Garang and his fellow parted colleagues on the continent. While death robbed Africa of many of her greatest sons in moments when they were needed most, there is a strong African belief in immortality. This belief, which is shared across African cultures, is based on the notion that when one leaves behind one's children and family, he becomes immortalised. One's identity, values and influence remain among the living and are perpetuated and handed down through suceeding generations.

Dr John, and others like him, fulfilled the permanence of identity. Besides his children, he left behind several other "children" in the form of youth, student leaders, young professionals and hundreds upon hundreds of young people that he mentored and inspired directly or indirectly. These "John Garangs" are to be found in all corners of Africa and the globe and in all manner of professions and discliplines. There are likewise several "Chris Hanis", " Samora Machels", "Rosa Parks", " Maya Angelous", "Louse Rwagasores", "Albertina Sisulus" and "Julius Nyereres" in our midst making their own small contributions to the continent and the world.

Even they will become immortal when time comes for them to leave and the generations after them will continue the vision and legacy. Africa will rise and Dr. John lives.