Coming out of the shadow of complacency to the power of taping into resources available around us.

 Shalom to you and your family. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to you after two months of marriage for all that God has accomplished through your generous support in uniting us in matrimony. Your kindness and encouragement have been a source of strength for us as we embark on this new journey together. We are doing well, yet we face numerous challenges and opportunities to serve God's purpose in South Sudan, a land rich in potential but fraught with difficulties. Amidst everything, as the Lord instructed Israel through Moses to move forward in faith, we remain steadfast and committed to the changes we made last year towards sustainability. We are determined to utilize the resources available here to implement the comprehensive plan that has been set before us since the inception of OMNI in 1993, a plan that aims to uplift and empower the community through sustainable practices.

Overcoming Challenges in OMNI's Journey to Self-Sufficiency

Implementing sustainability presents significant challenges to the ground team, which is truly dedicated to the mission but sometimes finds it difficult to maintain focus and clarity amid the hurdles. These challenges can lead to moments of discouragement, especially when the vision and goal they have dedicated their lives to seem distant. The transformation of OMNI from relying solely on external support from the USA to becoming self-sufficient is a monumental task. The team faces ongoing difficulties, particularly because the equipment left by the previous administration to enhance sustainability has consistently proven to be a source of frustration and inefficiency. This has made it increasingly challenging for the staff to remain motivated and committed to the vision we have for the future.

Celebrating the Proverbs 31 Woman: Sarah Levi's Inspiring Journey

My beloved wife, Sarah Levi, embodies the qualities of a Proverbs 31 Woman, and she has been diligently discovering her God-given calling and talents both at home and in ministry. Her efforts are truly commendable; she has been making delicious homemade bread, brewing aromatic coffees, and crafting herbal medicine, all of which not only nourish our bodies but also serve the community. Her dedication to her craft and her willingness to serve others are a testament to her faith and commitment to our mission, and I am continually inspired by her creativity and resourcefulness.

In terms of our operations, we are pleased to report that the backhoe is now fully operational after we dedicated considerable resources and time to address its mechanical issues. This investment was crucial, as the backhoe plays a pivotal role in our day-to-day activities. However, we are still grappling with a significant challenge that has arisen from the backhoe's current capabilities. Specifically, the boom of the backhoe is unable to sustain the necessary strength to hold and excavate trenches for foundation work effectively. This limitation has unfortunately led to several contracts slipping away from us, as we have been unable to meet the demands of our clients in a timely manner. To remedy this situation, we recognize the urgent need to service the backhoe further and correct the hydraulic system to enhance the boom's capacity. Improving this aspect is not just a matter of convenience; it is essential for ensuring that we can perform our tasks efficiently and uphold our commitments to our clients. We anticipate that addressing these hydraulic issues will cost us approximately $5,000, a necessary expenditure to secure our operational efficiency and future contract opportunities. In the meantime, we have just completed significant work at Moli Andru, marking a substantial step forward in our agricultural initiatives.

This project has been a testament to our commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity in the region. We are optimistic about the potential benefits it will bring to the community and our organization as a whole. As we move forward, we continue to pray for the improvement of the backhoe's mechanical condition, as it is an indispensable tool in our efforts to cultivate the land effectively and sustainably. We believe that with perseverance and the right resources, we will overcome these challenges. God bless this endeavor and all those involved in it, as we strive to make a positive impact through our work.

We are also excited to announce that we are expanding the farm area for our agricultural initiative set for 2025. With Emmanuel, our dedicated Farm Coordinator, working alongside a skilled chainsaw operator, we aim to clear at least 20 acres this year or potentially even more. This will allow us to plant additional cash crops and food crops, which are essential for both the community's sustenance and economic growth.

The trees currently being cut down to clear the farming area are not going to waste; they will be repurposed for charcoal production, and the funds generated from this will be reinvested to pay our hardworking staff. This approach not only supports our financial sustainability but also aligns with our commitment to making the most of the resources available to us.

We humbly ask for your prayers for manpower, as this is currently one of our most pressing needs. Without sufficient labor, our ambitious plans may face delays, and we are relying on God's provision in this area.

In the Agriculture department, we truly appreciate your ongoing encouragement and support. We are now fully engaged in dry season cultivation, and the promise of our equipment is beginning to bear fruit, quite literally. Your prayers for this department have been invaluable, and by faith, we believe we shall reach the climax of our efforts. 🙏

Reflecting on our past endeavors, in 2019, we planted 2000 Eucalyptus trees at the Beth Israel Farmland with the noble aim of building local churches and home structures, promoting sustainability initiatives that would benefit future generations. While some of these trees did not survive the harsh conditions, those that did are now reaching maturity and are ready for construction. We have already utilized the first batch of this wood to build a local church in Nyongwa Barracks, as requested by Pastor Abraham and Elder Kerebino, which is a significant milestone for the community.

Additionally, in 2019, we also planted several mango trees, extending the area northward. Today, we are thrilled to report that these mango trees are producing fruit like never before, thanks to the sustainability initiatives we have put in place. These trees have been remarkably productive for two consecutive years, providing nourishment and income for the local families.

I am very pleased to see that the staff at NTC 97.3 FM are emerging from complacency and beginning to tap into the abundant resources available around us. It is heartening to witness a transformation in their approach, where innovation and proactive engagement are becoming central to their operations. The commitment to exploring new avenues for growth and efficiency reflects a forward-thinking mindset that is essential in today’s rapidly changing media landscape. I am particularly proud of their leadership, Taban Libira and Robert Amoko, for acquiring new inverters with multiple applications. These inverters are not just ordinary devices; they represent a significant advancement in our ability to harness renewable energy sources. Capable of solar charging, these inverters allow for the operation of essential equipment while minimizing battery use, which is a remarkable step towards promoting environmental sustainability.

Your efforts are commendable, and I encourage you to keep up the good work as you pave the way for a brighter future. By continuing to innovate and embrace sustainable practices, NTC 97.3 FM is not only enhancing its operational efficiency but also contributing positively to the community and the environment. This journey towards sustainability is not just beneficial for the station itself; it serves as an inspiration for other organizations to recognize the importance of adopting similar practices, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and responsible media ecosystem.

ONMI field vehicles need replacement. 3 vehicles for $33,000.

May the Lord keep you safe and be gracious to you in all your endeavors, and may His countenance shine upon you, bringing you peace and shalom in every aspect of your life. We invite you to join us in this vital work, as your tax-deductible contribution can be made conveniently online at www.operationsnehemiah.org. Alternatively, if you prefer to send your support through traditional mail, please direct your tax-deductible contributions to ONMI at PO Box 563, Lanesborough, MA 01237, USA. Your support is invaluable, and we thank you for being a part of this important journey with us.

 In His grace

William Levi Founder and Overseer,

Operation Nehemiah Missions