Malithbuol, Aweil South County, Northern Bahr El Ghazal State, South Sudan
A Childhood Disrupted by Conflict and Flooding
In recent years, conflict and flooding have displaced thousands across Aweil South County, leaving children like Agok Deng facing fear, uncertainty, and interrupted education. Without safe spaces to learn and play, many struggled to adapt and heal.
In March 2025, Community in Need Aid (CINA), with support from Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), established Child Friendly Spaces (CFS) in Wathmuok, Panthou, and Malithbuol. These centers were designed to provide a nurturing environment for both displaced and host community children.
A Safe Space to Learn, Play, and Heal
The Malithbuol CFS has supported over 1,700 children, offering:
- Educational support to keep children engaged in learning
- Recreational activities to promote play and creativity
- Psychosocial support to help children heal from trauma
Friendly and dedicated staff welcome children daily, prioritizing their health, safety, and emotional well-being.
“In this child-friendly environment, I feel motivated and ready to learn. The staff are kind and always make us feel welcome and safe.”
— Agok Deng, 15 years old
Stories of Resilience and Hope
Agok’s story is echoed by many others. Agou Bol, 16, displaced from Wathmuok in 2024, has attended the Panthou center for nearly five months and now dreams of studying international relations.
Her younger sister, Nyanut, 12, also finds joy and comfort at the Malithbuol CFS:
“When I started coming here in March 2025, the center helped me adapt to the new environment and make friends.”
— Nyanut, 12 years old
These Child Friendly Spaces have become more than just centers—they are sanctuaries of hope, learning, and resilience. Through community collaboration and consistent support, these spaces are shaping a generation that is not only surviving but thriving.
