JONGLEI -In the capital of South Sudan’s Jonglei state, an internally displaced peoples’ camp stands as a reminder of South Sudan’s painful past. It was established in the aftermath of the 2013 conflict, which tore families apart and forced thousands to flee their homes in search of safety.
More than a decade later, many children in this camp have known nothing but displacement, hardship and uncertainty.
Life here is not easy. Children grow up in crowded shelters with limited access to learning materials, safety play spaces, and necessities.
Despite these challenges, hope still finds a way to shine, sometimes through the smallest act of kindness.
On Christmas eve, this hope arrived with laughter, songs and color.
Under the watchful eyes of the United Nations Police (UNPOL) officers serving with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), children sit on the ground, crayons and papers in hand, drawing what Christmas looks like to them.
Trees, bells, candles, angels, stars, and even figures of Santa Claus slowly take shape—symbols of joy imagined more than experienced.
“My name is Nyok Dak Makuach” says one young boy, smiling as he points to his drawing.
“I am drawing a Christmas tree and a bell,” he adds.
Nearby Tabitha James Thokuor carefully sketches an angel and Christmas lights. Ask how she feels, and she answers simply:
“I am happy,”
That happiness is the result of a special outreach organized by Elena Dunaeva, a project coordination and implementation officer, alongside UNPOL police commander and other officers.
The team brought gifts, learning materials and most importantly, their time and experiences.
The event includes drawing sessions, singing, games and gift-giving, activities designed not just for celebration, but for healing. Through art and play, children were encouraged to express themselves and share emotions they often keep aside.
“Children express their feelings in different ways,” explains Elena.
“When they draw, they tell stories, how they feel, and what they dream about”
According to Elena Dunaeva, the visit goes beyond the holiday season.
“Every Saturday, we come here to conduct English classes,” she says. “The children are always waiting for us. What matters most is not what we do, but that we spend time with them and treat them like friends.”
For Elena, the experience is deeply personal.
“The most touching moment is when we arrive,”
she says softly, “they run to us, hug us, they call our names and that is something I will always remember.”
As songs fill the air and children proudly show off their drawings, the camp, if only for a few hours, feels different. The scars of violence fade into the background, replaced by smiles, laughter and the warmth of human connections.
In a place born out of conflict, this simple gesture reminded these children that they are seen, valued, loved.
By Mach Samuel
