Firsthand Insights from a Six-Month Mission in South Sudan. Thank you.
- William Levi, Founder & CEO
- Jul 3
- 13 min read
Shalom to you and your family in Yeshua's name. On behalf of my family, ONMI, and the believers in Yeshua across South Sudan, we sincerely thank you for your unwavering dedication and support over the past 9 remarkable years towards ONMI and our personal lives. Your steadfast commitment has been a cornerstone of our ministry calling and the success and growth of our organization. It is truly inspiring to see the impact of your generosity and advocacy over the years.

Returning Home: Embracing New Beginnings After a Transformative Mission in South Sudan
I am delighted to share that I have finally returned home to Lanesborough, MA, in the USA on Monday, marking a new chapter in our lives. My time in South Sudan has concluded for now, but I am considering a return in September, as there is still significant work to be done and many relationships to cultivate in our new marriage life. This transition is bittersweet, but I carry with me the lessons and love from my time there. After spending six months in South Sudan, which was the longest period I have ever been away from the USA on a mission, my experience was filled with numerous blessings and challenges, both within my family and my ministry, leading to a profound transformation in my life. Thanks to your generous and unwavering support and prayers from family, friends, ONMI, and my brethren in the Great Commission, I witnessed God's provision sustaining us and the ministry. Your continued support for ONMI's vision was invaluable, even while I was away from the USA during these six months you never ceased lifting up our arms.
Transformative Leadership and Vision Realignment at ONMI
In the past one year and a half, ONMI has experienced significant administrative changes, resulting in a complete overhaul of the previous administration and the establishment of a new governing body by ONMI's restructuring and the management leadership team on the ground in South Sudan under my oversight, the director of Ground Operations, the Board of directors and the Church. Our aim in revamping the former ONMI administration has been, and continues to be, to realign ONMI with its original vision and goal of securing funding from the USA to promote a long-term, sustainable, and permanent solution to eliminate the UN-driven relief dependency syndrome that has afflicted South Sudan for years. This syndrome has made it extremely difficult for tens of thousands of South Sudanese returning from exile to rebuild their lives from the devastation of war and displacement. Solely relying on US funding without an exit strategy to establish essential services such as food security, water access, education, healthcare, communication, places of worship, and businesses to improve the living standards of people in dire poverty is not advisable nor sustainable.



Successful Path to Sustainability: Reflections from Six Months in South Sudan.
Today, after spending six months in South Sudan with the ONMI ground team—the longest period I have spent on a mission outside the USA in the past 30 years—to directly oversee this initiative, I have gained a clear understanding that we are indeed on the right path. ONMI's current administrative trajectory and roadmap, utilizing your generous financial support, are effectively achieving ONMI's vision for sustainability. The program is functioning exceptionally well.
Reduced Fundraising from USA Reflects Strategic Shift Towards Sustainable Solutions in South Sudan. But we are just beginning to see some fruits.
I can testify to this truth because I was on the ground for six months. The funds I raised from the USA for Operation Nehemiah Mission in the first half of 2025 amount to less than half of what we used to raise during the same period in previous years. This is because the current ONMI administration believes that the financial support from our benevolent donors in the USA can be wisely used to meet ONMI's objectives for a permanent solution to sustainability in South Sudan.
Urgent Call to Support ONMI's Sustainability Initiatives in South Sudan and because it is working and we are done yet!
Does this mean we have achieved our mission toward sustainability in South Sudan, and therefore benefactors should cease contributing? No, that is not what I am saying, because we are still far from our target. We have developed initiatives to target specific ONMI projects for funding on the ground in South Sudan that are necessary and effective for delivering a long-term and permanent solution to sustainability. Some of these projects are outlined below, and I urge you to allocate your financial support to any of these indispensable projects, as time is of the essence. Our five-year projection to achieve at least 50% of our sustainability goal ends at the end of 2025. We need all hands-on deck to help us reach this goal.
Diversifying Fundraising Strategies for Self-Sustainability in South Sudan
ONMI has implemented measures to diversify and strategize its fundraising efforts in South Sudan, aiming to rely less on resources from the USA for support. This is accomplished by establishing networks and fostering a self-sustaining economy within its various departments. Stakeholders in these departments engage in fundraising using the resources at their disposal, thanks to your support in providing the necessary infrastructure already in place. Funds are borrowed and reimbursed internally, avoiding reliance on bank loans or solely waiting for funding from the USA. It is no longer about a one-sided solution. Although funding from the USA, through your generous support, is 100% essential and indispensable for stabilizing ONMI's current procurement, this approach must be sustained for the long hold.
1- Advancing the Great Commission: Establishing Messianic Communities in South Sudan. A local Kehillah & a Local rabbi/pastor Needs local support from their community.
My spiritual and pastoral work with the Nile Beth Israel Messianic Kehillah is aimed at advancing the Great Commission in South Sudan. While on the ground, I concentrated on realizing the vision of the Nile Beth Israel Messianic Kehillah. My main efforts have been focused on establishing the Nile Beth Israel Messianic Kehillah in Kerepi Mutala, forming a congregation at Nyongwa Military Barracks, and offering pastoral discipleship at Bethlehem Messianic Kehillah in Bethlehem Borongole, Nderetor Military Barracks, and Beth Israel Levi of Akko Mountain. In each area, we have implemented biblical training for pastors in sound Messianic doctrine and discipleship for young believers to strengthen their faith. I encourage the congregant or the kehillah to understand that a local church needs a local support and local pastor needs the support of their local church to survive. We chose local materials to build church building using wood from our own farmland. We have built one Kehillah in Nyongwa barrack and started another in Ndereto Barrak all building material are local.
Launch of Nehemiah Stewardship Enterprise: A New Hub for Sustainability and Service.
The Nehemiah Stewardship Enterprise warehouse is now operational, selling motorbike parts, car engine oil, mechanical repairs, fuel, engine tires, and tools. Managed by Matthew Abuca, ONMI's Director of Ground Operations, this venture promotes sustainability within the ministry, supported by your financial contributions. Key leaders in ONMI's RLT structure include James Unzi Martin (Nehemiah Polytechnic training), Samuel Koma (Medical & Treasury Department), Alafi Emmanuel (Agriculture and pastor at Beh Israel Messianic Kehillah), Matthew Abuca (Nehemiah Stewardship Enterprise/Backhoe operation), George Taban Libira (Finance/NTC Gospel radio), Robert Amoko (NTC Gospel radio), Joseph Drici (Bethlehem Nursery and Primary Academy), and Jino Longa, Elder (BIMK at Messiah Ambassador's House). Pastor Benjamin Levi, Secretary of BIMK, and Bishop William Levi, Founder and CEO, oversee operations from His residences in BILA, EE South Sudan and Lanesborough, MA, USA. ONMI is a conservative Christian ministry promoting stakeholder involvement, benevolence, self-sufficiency, and service without coercion.
Revitalizing The Beth Israel Farmhouse: A New Beginning for Our Family
Moreover, thanks to your support, we have successfully renovated The Beth Israel Farmhouse, which now serves as our official family residence. Previously, it was nearly in ruins due to looting and neglect during the 2016 National crisis in South Sudan. Transforming the farmhouse has been a project of love and dedication, creating a warm and inviting home for us to start our new life together. We have already begun discipleship and fellowship in our home, ministering to the farmers working with us. We moved into the property on June 11, marking a significant milestone in our journey as a couple. To modernize our living situation and ensure sustainability, we installed solar power to provide a reliable energy supply for essential equipment.
We deeply appreciate your steadfast dedication and support over the remarkable years with ONMI.
Your unwavering commitment has been fundamental to our organization's success and growth.
It is truly inspiring to see the impact of your generosity
and advocacy throughout the years.
The ONMI: Celebrating Your Impact and Support
As a symbol of our deep appreciation, we were proud to open the Polytechnic Institute last year, which reflects
your significant impact and backing of ONMI's mission. This institute serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity,
representing the transformative power of your contributions.
Empowering Support: Fueling Progress and Inspiration by faith
Your support has given us the resources necessary to meet ONMI's goals in easing the hardships of South Sudanese
Christians and has also been a source of motivation and encouragement. Your belief in ONMI's mission has
driven us onward, instilling the determination to overcome obstacles and realize our goal at ONMI, helping to rebuild
South Sudan both physically and spiritually, as the people recover from the devastation of war and displacement.
Celebrating Our Enduring Partnership and Shared Impact
We are deeply grateful for your enduring partnership and look forward to continuing this journey
together, making a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve. Your legacy of support will
forever be cherished and remembered as a driving force behind ONMI's mission and vision.
Unleashing Innovation and Excellence at the Nehemiah Polyethnic Insitute
Discover the fascinating world of the Polytechnic Institute by visiting their official website at
www.jjmpolytech.tech. Here, you can delve into the innovative projects and groundbreaking
research that are made possible through the generous support of individuals like you. Learn
about the cutting-edge technologies being developed, the impactful initiatives being undertaken,
and the inspiring stories of success that are shaping the future at this renowned institution. Your
continued interest and involvement play a crucial role in driving positive change and fostering a
culture of excellence at the John & Judy Polytechnic Institute. Explore the website today to
witness firsthand the transformative power of your support.
Empowering Future Professionals: JJMPI's Diverse
Curriculum and Student Cohort
This year marked a significant milestone for JJMPI as we welcomed a cohort of 16 enthusiastic
students eager to embark on a journey of skill development and technical training. Our diverse
curriculum catered to a wide array of interests and career paths, offering specialized courses in
IT, Tailoring & Fashion Design, Beauty Salon Management, Welding, Electrical Engineering,
and the innovative field of Drip Irrigation.
Empowering Students with Cutting-Edge IT Skills
Through our comprehensive programs, students delved deep into the intricacies of their chosen
disciplines, honing their skills under the guidance of experienced instructors. The IT course
equipped learners with cutting-edge knowledge in programming, networking, and cybersecurity,
preparing them for the dynamic world of technology.
The Art of Fashion Design: Nurturing Creativity and
Craftsmanship
Meanwhile, the Tailoring & Fashion Design program sparked creativity and craftsmanship,
nurturing the next generation of fashion designers and garment makers. Students explored design
principles, garment construction techniques, and trend forecasting, developing a keen eye for
style and detail.
Mastering Beauty Techniques and Salon Operations: A
Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring Salon Owners and
Professionals
In the Beauty Salon Management course, aspiring salon owners and beauty professionals learned
the art of customer service, salon operations, and the latest trends in hair and skincare. They
gained hands-on experience in creating stunning makeovers and mastering beauty techniques
that would set them apart in the competitive industry.
Specialized Skills in Welding and Electrical Engineering
Our Welding and Electrical Engineering tracks provided students with practical skills in
metalwork, fabrication, and electrical systems. From welding intricate structures to
troubleshooting electrical circuits, participants gained the expertise needed to excel in these field.
At present, the welding students and instructors have been hired by construction clients
to create windows, doors, and tables for their school. In return, the Faculty of Welding and Electrical
Engineering receives payment for their work.
Mastering Sustainable Agriculture with Drip Irrigation
specialized fields.
Lastly, the Drip Irrigation course introduced students to sustainable agricultural practices,
teaching them how to optimize water usage and increase crop yields through efficient irrigation
systems. By blending theory with hands-on projects, learners acquired valuable insights into
modern farming techniques and environmental conservation. Budget $6500
Overall, the diverse offerings at JJMPI empowered students to pursue their passions, acquire
industry-relevant skills, and embark on fulfilling career paths in the ever-evolving landscape of
engineering and technical fields.
Celebrating Remarkable Progress and Commitment: A
Journey of Dedication and Growth
Just 1 and half year into the training program, our dedicated students have shown remarkable progress
and commitment to mastering the skills within their chosen field. The attached picture showcases
their latest achievements, highlighting their depth of knowledge and practical application of the
concepts they have learned so far., we are proud to witness how far they have come and how much they have grown professionally.
Their success serves as a testament to their hard work, determination, and eagerness to excel in
their training. We look forward to celebrating their accomplishments and seeing them embark on
the next chapter of their careers with confidence and proficiency.
Support Needed to Complete Dormitory Project
However, we still needs critical support to complete dormitory project of water supplies,
electricity, and bathroom project to be finished by the end of this year before we recruit more
students to join the institute early next year.
Ensuring Student Well-being through Essential Utilities in
Dormitories
While progress has been made on the dormitory project, it is crucial to emphasize the need for
continued and critical support in order to successfully complete the remaining tasks. The
provision of essential utilities such as water supplies, electricity, and bathroom facilities is
essential to ensure the comfort and well-being of the students who will be residing in the
dormitories. These facilities are not only necessary for daily living but also play a significant role
in creating a conducive environment for learning and personal development.
It is imperative that the dormitory project is completed by the end of this year to accommodate
the influx of new students who are expected to join the institute early next year. Without the
necessary infrastructure in place, the institute may face challenges in providing a safe and
conducive living environment for the students, which could ultimately impact their overall
educational experience. Budget $45,000
Ensuring Essential Facilities for a Successful Dormitory
Project
Therefore, the support and resources needed to finalize the water supplies, electricity, and
bathroom project are vital to the successful completion of the dormitory project. By ensuring that
these essential facilities are in place, the institute can create a welcoming and functional living
space for its students, setting the stage for a successful academic year ahead.
Empowering faculty and Technical Students
through Pilot Projects- Budget $30,000
We aim to create pilot projects that offer valuable opportunities to faculty and technical
students. These projects will involve engaging the students in technical tasks within the school
premises, allowing them to gain practical experience, earn incentive , and further develop their
skills over the course of the academy calendar 2025 . The allocated budget for these initiatives amounts
to $30,000, which will be distributed among the various departments that have successfully
produced graduates. Each department will receive $5,000 to support the implementation of these
pilot projects.
Empowering Students Through Skill-Based Compensation and Practical Experience
The students will be compensated based on their area of expertise, enabling them
to contribute effectively to the following pilot tasks within the polytechnic institute: welding,
electrical work, IT projects, tailoring assignments, beauty salon services, and drip irrigation
projects. By engaging in these hands-on activities, the students will not only enhance their
technical capabilities but also gain practical insights into their chosen fields, preparing them for
future employment opportunities and professional growth.
Securing Sarah's Future: Passport, Visa Process, and New Beginnings
Amid these changes, I took steps to secure Sarah's future travel to the USA and the use of legal documents in South Sudan by obtaining her passport. This marks the beginning of the spouse visa application process, enabling her to join me in the USA, where new opportunities and adventures await us. Sarah Levi won't be able to accompany me this time due to the immigration process. However, we have now secured her passport, and we moved to the Beth Israel Farmland on June 11. Thank you for making it possible for us to renovate the house and finally move in before my return to the USA. The vehicle purchased with your support from Dubai to facilitate my wife's travels from the farm to the main road, where the road conditions are poor, has arrived in South Sudan via Mombasa on Monday, June 30th, the very day of my departure to the USA. By the grace of God, I managed to clear it through South Sudanese and Ugandan customs and handed it over to Sarah to take home from Nimule customs authority.
Supporting Sarah's Role in Sustainable Farming for Family and Community
My hope is that during my three-month stay in the States, you will join me in praying for Sarah to assist in managing 10 acres of farmland, which has been designated from the 200 acres of Beth Israel Farmland surrounding the house. These 10 acres will be used by Sarah and me to ensure food security for our immediate family, sustaining us for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, the remainder of the farmland will address the broader needs of ONMI, following the sustainability initiative overseen by Mr. Emmanuel, the ONMI farm coordinator. Both farming initiatives require some funding to successfully conclude the year.
Strategic Farm Plans for Sustainable Growth at Beth Israel Farmland in 2025
I have designated 6 farmworkers to plant food crops, timber trees, and fruit trees, ensuring that Sarah can depend on the produce from our local garden. Furthermore, under my guidance, Emmanuel will focus on setting up large-scale food production for commercial purposes to create income for long-term sustainability. These are the two farm plans we aim to implement at the Beth Israel farmland in 2025
Launching Sustainable Agriculture at Beth Israel Farmland: A Call for Support and Leadership
Our move to the Beth Israel Farmland is essential to show our ground team that we are leading by example in building a strong foundation for sustainability. This project aims to establish a practical and manageable agricultural activity that ensures lasting food security. The first six months of 2025 will be crucial for us to demonstrate leadership and effectiveness, proving to our team that achieving sustainability through food security is possible. This involves ongoing efforts to monitor the farm's progress. In our quest to maintain food security on our family's 10 acres and the rest of Beth Israel Farmland, I've realized we need financial support over the next three critical farming months.
Seeking Investment and Support for 2025 Food Security Initiative
An initial investment of $5,000 is required for the 10 acres to assist Sarah's efforts on the farm, and $6,500 is needed for the remainder of Beth Israel Farmland under Emmanuel Alafi's guidance. We are requesting prayers and financial support for food security in this area during the first week of July to successfully initiate this 2025 food security project.
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Would you join us and pray for these needs today? As we are coming to end of October 2024, these are
the most immediate needs that need to be met in July- September 2025 is $120,000 covering Your donations are tax deductible and online donations can be made to www.operationsnehemiah.org.
Checks can be sent to Operation Nehemiah Missions PO Box 563 Landsborough, MA 01237.
Thank you for your generosity and honesty. May God bless you and keep you. Thank you in advance for your consideration.
In His grace
William Levi, founder, and Overseer,
Operation Nehemiah Missions PO Box 563 Landsborough, MA 01237.
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