Sudanese children show ‘strength worthy of recognition’
Despite incredible challenges, he found hope and resilience in their stories.
Nearly 19 months of relentless conflict in Sudan have devastated millions, with children bearing the brunt of the crisis.
According to the UN, more than 5 million children have been forced to relocate.
In response, UNICEF and its partners have been providing critical medical supplies, screening for malnutrition and helping to create safe spaces where children can learn, play and receive support. support.
Share experiences of conflict
Ishmael Beah, a human rights activist and former child soldier who was forcibly recruited at age 13 in Sierra Leone, has worked with UNICEF since his appointment as a Goodwill Ambassador in 2007.
His time in Sudan brought him face-to-face with children in refugee camps, many of whom had endured unimaginable trauma.
In a child-friendly space supported by UNICEF, he was able to share his own journey, growing up in the midst of a painful conflict. It was their turn to share about their future dreams.
These spaces provide opportunities for vulnerable children to learn, play, socialize with friends, receive emotional support and begin to regain a sense of normalcy.
“Despite the incredible challenges they faced when they fled their homes, they demonstrated the incredible intelligence that underpinned their resilience,” Mr. Beah said.
“[The children of Sudan] have a strength that deserves to be recognized and respected and not to let their dreams of becoming doctors, engineers or artists be shattered by this conflict,” he added.
A displaced child at a UNICEF-supported site in Port Sudan.
The future of Sudanese youth
The children’s stories reflect the broader crisis unfolding across Sudan, now one of the world’s most urgent displacement crises. Families are frequently forced to flee, then displaced again as fighting spreads.
Girls have borne an especially heavy burden, facing terrifying risks to their safety, including rape and other forms of sexual violence.
From January to September 2024 only, UNICEF verified more than 1,500 cases of serious violations against children.
“Without urgent action and additional resources, Sudan risks a generational disaster that will severely impact the country, the region and beyond,” warned Sheldon Yett, UNICEF Representative in Sudan. that too”.
Mr. Beah emphasized the resilience and determination of Sudanese youth saying: “[The children of Sudan] very smart, resourceful and full of hope for Sudan’s future.”
He added: “The Sudanese youth I met have no intention of abandoning their country and do not want the world to do so either.”
Ishmael Beah visits children at a UNICEF-supported child-friendly space in Port Sudan.
Call to action
The Goodwill Ambassador’s visit coincides with the launch of UNICEF’s 2025 Global Humanitarian Appeal for Children on 5 December.
The appeal seeks $9.9 billion to provide life-saving aid to 109 million children. Sudan represents the second largest funding request.
UNICEF representative in Sudan called: “We must act now, children in Sudan cannot wait any longer.”
