As we mark three years since the escalation of the war in Sudan, families continue to flee violence, crossing the border into neighbouring countries in search of safety.

In South Sudan, the ongoing arrival of people escaping the conflict is placing pressure on an already severely underfunded humanitarian response. Protection concerns, including gender-based violence and child protection, are increasing. Growing psychological distress and limited access to essential services such as water, healthcare, and education, are leaving people stranded in ever more difficult conditions.

In this context, JRS continues to be present accompanying refugees and returnees.

Sustaining mental health as a path to healing

At the Renk transit centre, JRS and its partners provide a strong, community-based response to the psychological distress caused by protracted conflict, displacement, and the spillover effects of the Sudan crisis.

This support is vital for those arriving exhausted and traumatised, like Nadir, 35, who reached Renk after a long and perilous journey. Violence and displacement abruptly shattered his stability and deeply affected his mental well-being, leaving him overwhelmed by severe depression. During a community awareness session, he learned about the services offered by JRS and found the courage to seek help. “I encourage anyone going through similar struggles not to suffer in silence,” he says.

Nadir was enrolled in a structured psychosocial support programme, through which he began to regain control over his life. His sleep improved, his anger subsided, and the overwhelming weight of depression began to lift. Today, he proudly shares that he feels mentally stable, physically well and hopeful about the future.

Supporting teachers to strengthen their communities

By supporting teachers to continue engaging students and providing quality education, JRS contributes to the effort of strengthening the education system and supporting the long-term recovery and resilience of children and young people in Renk.

Access to safe and inclusive learning opportunities in a context of crisis and displacement such as that of Renk is essential: it helps restore a sense of normality and protects children from exploitation, child labour, and early marriage.

Bonis Alibino is one of the teachers supported by JRS. He taught in Sudan before the conflict forced him to return to South Sudan. Accustomed to teaching in Arabic, he faced the challenge in Renk of teaching in a different language.

He enrolled in an English course offered by JRS and, with perseverance, has been attending lessons since 2023. Gradually, he gained confidence and eventually returned to the classroom, resuming his work as a teacher in several schools in the area.

Transforming lives through rehabilitation services

Alongside educational and psychosocial services, JRS also provides physiotherapy, assistive devices, and referrals to specialised services for people with disabilities, enabling them to regain their mobility and independence, something especially important for children whose development is at stake.

This was the case for Hadija, a seven‑year‑old girl, who developed post‑injection paralysis (PIP). What began as a routine medical injection sadly turned into a life-altering condition, leaving her unable to properly use her affected limb.

She began to experience significant movement difficulties, muscle weakness, and reduced functional ability in the affected limb, becoming dependent on her mother for even the most basic daily activities. Her confidence began to fade as she could no longer play freely like other children her age.

She was therefore included in a structured physiotherapy programme: session by session, Hadija began to regain strength, stability, and confidence, gradually returning to activities she had been forced to abandon.

Standing with those forced to flee

As conflict and instability continue in Sudan, JRS remains committed to supporting displaced communities seeking safety in South Sudan, helping them rebuild their lives and restore their dignity and hope.

Help us ensure that the people affected by this crisis are not forgotten.