Protection and education for children and young people affected by conflict

Sudan was once the largest country in Africa. The smaller part of this country, South Sudan, is still almost twice as big as Germany. Since gaining its independence in 2011, the youngest state in Africa is now trying to find its identity. A relentless civil war waged from 2013 to 2018. Despite the peace treaty signed in February 2020, the armed conflict continues and is forcing many people to flee.

According to UN figures, 2.2 million people from a population of 12 million have fled the violence, with 1.6 million of these people considered internally displaced. More than half of the population in South Sudan is dependent on humanitarian aid, with the coronavirus pandemic exacerbating the plight of many.

This project involves helping children and young people who are particularly affected by the precarious humanitarian situation and violent conflict. They are suffering from neglect, forced into child labour, arranged marriages, recruited into armed groups. They are subjected to domestic violence, as well as psychological stress from the daily acts of civil unrest. Less than half of the girls are currently able to attend school. Caritas international is supporting “Africa Development Aid (ADA)”, a local non-governmental organisation which helps those children and young people particularly affected and at risk. 3,500 boys and girls will attend five primary schools. 300 children who have been separated from their families will receive individual support that aims to secure their reunion. Adults are also receiving guidance in child protection and as sponsors for orphaned children and young people. Part of the project also involves training teachers in the prevention, protection and welfare of the children in their care.

The Redel Foundation is supporting these efforts with €75,000.

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