YAMBIO – Trauma comes in many forms.
Feeling frightened, unsafe, helpless, humiliated, rejected, threatened, invalidated, or powerless.
Every one of these sensations have been experienced by people across South Sudan, affected by devastating and persistent conflict, sexual and gender-based violence, loss of their families, their homes, livelihoods and robbed of opportunities.
In Yambio, those most affected have at least found a temporary safe haven at facilities like the Psychosocial Transit Center and Lutheran Church Orphanage.
Their stories highlight the challenges of living in a constant state of turmoil and fear as well as the support that they need and deserve.
“When situations worsen, like the violence that occurred in Tambura, near Yambio, women sometimes leave their families,” shared Ukuma Anthony. “My wife left me with our children. I understand the struggles she faced, but it left me with challenges that I just don’t know how to overcome.”
The single father is, not only trying to provide for his four children to the best of his abilities but is also a vocal advocate for the prevention of gender-based violence on men, an issue that is often overlooked.
During a visit to these facilities, peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, had the opportunity to hear and understand the challenges faced by those they serve and to provide emotional and practical support, including donating food and hygiene items.
“All of us want to build futures that make us forget about our pasts,” shared single mother of three, Jully Ngbazurezere.
For her, access to education for mothers and children is vital for building resilience and securing a better future.
Each of the residents feel they’ve been gifted with a second chance that they want to use wisely.
“Since I arrived in Yambio, I have been treated with nothing less than kindness,” shared Maria Festo, who lost her husband during conflict in Tambura. “After experiencing how much these communities are caring for those of us who fled the fighting, we want to use this chance to extend the same support to others.”
For peacekeepers like Colonel Belay Endale, the Commander of UNMISS’ Ethiopian Battalion, these stories serve as a reminder that protection of civilians is often more than physical.
“Listening to them reminds us of the incredible hardship people across this country have endured. It also reinforces that every physical protection we provide protects a future ahead.”
By Philip Mbugo
