Six Weeks on the Run: Amna's Long Journey to Safety
"We lived in peace in Nyala," said Amna1, a mother of nine children displaced from South Darfur. "I was a housewife. I didn’t need to work," she explained, referring to her life before the war erupted in Sudan between the Rapid Support Forces and Sudan’s Armed Forces. Now in Central Darfur, she faces challenges finding sources of income. Amna took on daily labour to feed her family.
Upon arriving in Central Darfur. local residents hosted her family. Nonetheless, her journey was strenuous and dangerous. "First, we fled to the forests and waited, hoping the situation would improve," Amna recounted. "But it didn't. So, we sought refuge in safe places, evading checkpoints and threats along the way." It took her six weeks to reach a safe location in Central Darfur.
Settling in a town in Central Darfur, Amna faced the daunting task of rebuilding her life from scratch. "Life became very difficult," she reflected. "We lost everything – our possessions, our sense of security. But we endured, relying on faith and resilience to carry us through."
In the midst of the turmoil, Amna found solace in the support funded by UK aid and provided through the Danish Refugee Council's protection efforts. "Their assistance changed everything for us," she explained. "Through cash aid and community initiatives, they provided immense support – enabling us to buy essentials, access healthcare, and rebuild our future." More importantly, DRC's awareness programs, conducted with the help of Community-Based Protection Networks, empowered Amna. She learned about her rights and those of her children, equipping her with the knowledge to strive for a better life. "My kids will be the leaders of tomorrow," Amna said. "That's why their future is my number one priority." She is determined to farm in autumn, cultivating her own food for self-reliance and independence.
As Amna spoke, her words resonated with quiet conviction, reflecting a steadfast belief in the possibility of change. "I dream of a united Sudan—a land where peace and harmony reign supreme," she said. "Where every individual is free to pursue their dreams without fear or prejudice. And I am committed to playing my part in bringing about this vision—to raising awareness, fostering understanding, and building a community rooted in love and compassion."
In Amna's optimism and resilient spirit, her words echo a truth that transcends hardship. Her belief in a brighter future, grounded in the reality of her daily struggles, reminds us of the strength inherent in the human experience. Even amidst adversity, she refuses to surrender to despair. Amna's determination embodies the resilience that defines us as human beings, demonstrating how supporting individuals like her can help create a world where communities can heal, rebuild, and dream of a better tomorrow.
Samar's Journey: From Street Vendor to Resilient Entrepreneur
Samar Abdelrahman Baicker, a resilient young woman from Al-Fashir in North Darfur's Abu-shok IDP camp, began her entrepreneurial journey with humble beginnings. Selling Tasali (roasted and salted watermelon seeds), a traditional snack, in front of her home, Samar's determination to provide for her family never wavered despite the limited income. Living in the challenging environment of the camp, Samar understood that she needed more opportunities to secure a better future for her loved ones.
In 2024, Samar’s life took a transformative turn when she was introduced to Save the Children’s "Girls Friendly Space" project, supported by UK aid. This initiative aimed to empower girls in North Darfur by equipping them with essential life skills, raising awareness, and providing resources to improve their livelihoods. Samar was one of the fortunate girls selected for life skills training.
Through the "Girls Friendly Space" project, Samar received extensive training in the bakery and pastry industry. This newfound knowledge allowed her to expand her business beyond selling Tasali. "The training I received not only improved the quality of my products but also helped me diversify my offerings," says Samar. Her business flourished as she began selling freshly baked goods alongside her traditional snacks. The boost in income brought more stability and security to her family.
The transformation in Samar’s life was remarkable. She went from struggling to make ends meet to becoming a successful entrepreneur. "Save the Children’s project gave me the skills and confidence to succeed," Samar reflects. Her story quickly became an inspiration to other girls in her community, demonstrating that with the right support, they too could overcome adversity and achieve success.
However, Samar’s journey has not been without setbacks. The recent conflict that erupted in Al-Fashir, North Darfur—specifically in the Abu-shok Camp—brought tragedy into her life. "During the violence, I was shot and sustained injuries," Samar recounts. Despite these hardships, her spirit remains unbroken. "I am determined to rebuild my life and continue supporting my family."
Samar is now calling on Save the Children to provide further support in helping her reestablish her income-generating activities. She knows that with the right assistance, she can overcome this latest challenge. "With continued support, I can rise above these circumstances and secure a better future for myself and my loved ones," she asserts.
Samar’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of Save the Children’s "Girls Friendly Space" project and the resilience of the human spirit. Even in the face of adversity, she remains a beacon of hope for her family and community.
