Supporting IDPs and School Leaders in South Sudan

150 years after the first Salesian missionary expedition in 1875, Salesians of Don Bosco are now found across the world, continuing their mission in the spirit of Don Bosco. In South Sudan, Salesians work amidst conflict and all the suffering it brings. In a significant humanitarian effort, they provided food relief and professional training to support internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Morobo County during the summer. These interventions, led by Fr. Leo, brought much needed relief to vulnerable families and allowed school teachers to prioritise hygiene and safeguarding at the St. Charles Lwanga Primary School.

Throughout this initiative, the Salesians were able to provide 700 IDP families with essential food items that have been able to last them for some weeks amid the ongoing displacement and rebel conflict in the region. The food distribution was conducted in collaboration with local authorities, community leaders, and humanitarian staff from the United Nations’ Regional Collaboration Centre (RCC) in Morobo County. Additionally, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Yei witnessed the aid distribution event, highlighting the Church’s ongoing support and solidarity with those affected in Morobo.

Beneficiaries expressed relief and gratitude after receiving their food packages. “We had nothing left to eat,” said a mother of four. “This food will help us survive. I pray for more support and for peace to return so we can go back home.” The displacement crisis in Morobo County is part of a broader humanitarian emergency affecting South Sudan, where millions remain displaced due to conflict and economic instability. The county has witnessed recurring violence, causing people to flee their homes and livelihoods. Many of the displaced are women, children, and the elderly—groups particularly at risk of malnutrition and poor health outcomes.

“We are grateful for the support provided to our people in these difficult times,” said one of the local county representatives. “This food assistance brings hope and relief to many families who have been struggling to find a meal each day.”

Fr. Leo, the Delegation Economer who led the programme on behalf of the Salesians of Don Bosco Juba, reiterated the importance of partnerships in responding to community needs,” Our mission is to serve with compassion and empower through knowledge. With support from Misean Cara and the guidance of the Church, we are reaching both the body and the soul.” He expressed the continued commitment of the Salesians of Don Bosco to serving the most vulnerable not only in Morobo but in other areas also facing such challenges in South Sudan.

“These food items are not just about nutrition—they are a symbol of hope and human dignity. We are here to support our displaced brothers and sisters not only physically but also spiritually.”

In addition to food distribution, a key component of the programme was training conducted for 21 teachers and 14 pupil leaders at St. Charles Lwanga Primary School. The training focused on child safeguarding, as well as Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH). These topics are crucial for promoting a safe, inclusive, and healthy learning environment, especially in Morobo, which has limited access to public services.

Added Recommendations for Further Support

To ensure more sustainable recovery and promote dignity among the displaced and marginalised in Morobo County, additional humanitarian interventions are highly recommended, including:

Tools and Seed Support for Affected Families
- Distribution of basic agricultural tools such as hoes, rakes, watering cans, and spades to help families begin small-scale farming.
- Provision of assorted vegetable and cereal seeds to promote food security and enable families to grow their own food in temporary settlements.
- Introduction of community demonstration gardens linked to schools and churches to encourage self-reliance.
Hygiene Kits for Women and Girls
- Regular distribution of dignity kits to women and girls, including sanitary pads, soap, undergarments, and essential hygiene supplies to ensure menstrual health and dignity.
- Provision of family hygiene kits including buckets, bathing soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and laundry soap to improve sanitation among displaced populations.
Shelter Support for Elderly and Disabled Persons
- Construction of simple, durable shelters for the most vulnerable individuals, especially elderly persons and those living with disabilities, using local materials (iron sheets, poles, mud bricks).
- Community participation in building efforts to encourage ownership and sustainability of the initiative.

These activities are part of ongoing efforts by the Salesians of Don Bosco and their partners to provide holistic support to communities affected by conflict and displacement in South Sudan. By combining immediate relief with education and capacity-building, the Salesian community aims to empower communities to rebuild and thrive even in challenging circumstances. As conflict and economic crisis continue to devastate communities across South Sudan, it is our privilege to help provide assistance to the affected populations. We humbly ask for your continued prayers and support for the IDPs of South Sudan, to help bring hope in these difficult times.