In the heart of displacement across Greater Mundri, where uncertainty and hardship continue to shape daily life for internally displaced families, a quiet yet powerful transformation is taking place among children reached by EVE Organization for Women Development with support from the South Sudan Humanitarian Fund (SSHF). Through Child-Friendly Space (CFS) activities, children who once carried the heavy burden of trauma, fear, and hopelessness are rediscovering joy, confidence, and a renewed sense of belonging.
When many of these children first arrived as displaced Children in Greater Mundri, they were withdrawn, anxious, and struggling to cope with the impact of conflict and displacement. Some had lost access to education, while others showed signs of emotional distress, including isolation, fear, and difficulty interacting with their peers. Their days lacked structure, and their futures felt uncertain.
Recognizing these challenges, EVE Organization for Women Development with Funds from SSHF established Child-Friendly Spaces to provide safe, inclusive, and nurturing environments where children can begin to heal and recover. Through structured play, creative arts, storytelling, psychosocial support (PSS), sports, literacy and numeracy lessons, and recreational activities such as football, volleyball, skipping rope, and teamwork exercises, children are given opportunities to express themselves, rebuild trust, and regain a sense of normalcy.
One remarkable story is that of Grace Jerisa, a 12-year-old girl who arrived at Kundi displacement sites visibly distressed and unable to engage with others. She rarely spoke and avoided group activities. However, after several weeks of consistent participation in CFS sessions, Grace gradually began to open up. She discovered a passion for drawing and storytelling, using art as a powerful outlet to express her emotions and experiences.
Grace, a child from Greater Mundri, shares her experience of healing and joy.
“I did not want to talk to anyone when I first came here,” Grace shares softly. “But when I started drawing, I felt better. Now I have friends, and I like coming to the center every day.”
Today, Grace actively participates in group activities, has formed meaningful friendships, and even encourages other children to join.
Similarly, groups of boys who initially displayed aggressive behavior have shown significant improvement over time. Through sports and teamwork activities facilitated by trained staff and social workers, they are learning cooperation, conflict resolution, and positive ways to channel their emotions.
One of the boys Karama Joseph explained, “Before, we used to fight a lot because we were angry. Now we play together, and I have learned how to control my temper.”
Caregivers have also observed remarkable positive changes in their children. One parent noted, “My child used to stay alone and cry often. Since joining the Child-Friendly Space, she is happier, talks more, and even helps others. I can see hope in her again.”
Beyond emotional healing, the Child-Friendly Spaces are also supporting children’s cognitive development. Basic literacy and numeracy sessions are helping bridge learning gaps, enabling children to regain confidence in their academic abilities and prepare for reintegration into formal education.
Speaking about the impact of psychosocial support activities, Kiko Evaline, Project Manager, EVE Organization for Women Development (Mundri Office) emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces for children affected by conflict and displacement.
“Psychosocial support is helping children recover emotionally and socially after experiencing trauma and displacement. Through the Child-Friendly Spaces, we are seeing children regain confidence, rebuild relationships, and restore hope for the future. Many children who were once isolated and fearful are now actively participating in learning and recreational activities, which is a strong sign of healing and resilience,” the Project Manager stated.
Community leaders have also praised the initiative for the positive changes it has brought to displaced families across Greater Mundri.
James Night, youth leader in Greater Mundri, speaking on the impact of the Child-Friendly Space.
“The support provided by EVE Organization has greatly improved the wellbeing of children in the displacement sites,” said James Night, a youth leader in Greater Mundri.
“Previously, many children lacked proper nutritional support and there were no Child-Friendly Spaces, but today we are witnessing healthier, happier, and more engaged children through the support activities provided,” he added.
Children in Kundi site receiving nutritious porridge at the Child-Friendly Space
“We thank EVE Organization for introducing learning programs that are helping our children gain basic education knowledge and skills,” James continued.
“We, the community, especially the internally displaced families, are very happy with the support from EVE Organization and encourage them to continue supporting us,” he concluded.
Through the Child-Friendly Space package, EVE Organization continues to provide protection services to children in Greater Mundri with structured activities, including daily porridge, learning sessions, and psychosocial support. This integrated approach is helping restore routine, improve children’s wellbeing, and strengthen their sense of safety and stability.
For many families, the Child-Friendly Space has become more than just a safe place — it is a lifeline. It restores routine, rebuilds confidence, and creates a sense of stability in an otherwise uncertain environment.
Through its dedicated interventions, EVE Organization for Women Development is not only addressing the immediate psychosocial needs of displaced children but also equipping them with the resilience and life skills needed to overcome adversity and rebuild their futures.
This continued support is strengthening protection outcomes and restoring hope among children in Greater Mundri.
In the midst of displacement and hardship, hope is being restored — one child at a time
