In the heart of South Sudan, where challenges seem never-ending, stories of hope shine brightly.
Daniel Ayuen’s journey is one of resilience, determination and empathy. Born and raised in Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya, where he spent 12 years, Daniel experienced the hardships of displacement firsthand. Today, as a programme manager for food security and livelihoods at Smile Again Africa Development Organization (SAADO), Daniel is transforming lives in South Sudan.
I was born and raised a refugee in Kakuma camp, where I spent most of my childhood. I understand the struggles these people face because I lived them myself. It helps me connect with the refugees and give them hope that this situation isn’t permanent.
Your support helps Christian Aid partners like SAADO bring back joy, peace and hope to the lives of many. No donation is too small to help make a change.
Who are SAADO?
SAADO, a South Sudanese non-profit humanitarian organisation and partner of Christian Aid, is at the forefront of addressing the devastating impact of food insecurity in Northern Bahr el Ghazal. Through the Chronic Crisis Stream, a five-year project in collaboration with Christian Aid, Daniel and his team are working tirelessly to provide essential support to vulnerable refugees and host communities, helping them to survive, recover and rebuild.
Drawing on his unique perspective and lived experience, Daniel embodies the spirit of SAADO’s mission: to deliver hope, dignity, and opportunity in the face of immense challenges. His work not only supports those suffering, but also empowers communities to find lasting solutions after facing crisis.
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At one point, I received help from people I didn’t know, and that generosity changed my life. Now, I feel it’s my duty to give back and help others see a better tomorrow.
A region in crisis
Northern Bahr el Ghazal, a state in South Sudan, has become a critical entry point for refugees and returnees fleeing the war in Sudan. Since the outbreak of conflict in April 2023, thousands of people have arrived in Wedweil settlement, desperate for safety and support.
However, the region faces severe challenges, including food insecurity classified as IPC4—one step away from catastrophic levels.
Extreme flooding, prolonged droughts and an overwhelming number of new arrivals have strained already scarce resources. Humanitarian agencies like SAADO, in partnership with Christian Aid, are responding to these urgent needs through projects like the Chronic Crisis Stream (CCS). This initiative addresses emergency livelihoods, resilience and peacebuilding in refugee communities.
No one chooses to be a refugee. Refugees are talented, resourceful people who can make significant contributions if given a chance. They deserve access to services and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
The ongoing conflict and challenges following the Sudan war have led to a humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and facing extreme hardship, hunger and violence. Find out more about how this crisis began, and how we can help restore peace.
Cash distributions and community resilience
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When cash is distributed, it reduces stress and allows families to prioritise what they need most. We’ve seen significant impacts, such as a drop in gender-based violence cases, as households regain some sense of control over their lives.
The needs are vast, and resources are limited, but this cash intervention has come at a critical time
Call on the UK to help prevent further conflict in South Sudan. Together we can help prevent further violence and conflict this Christmas.
Daniel's message to Christian Aid supporters
'Christian Aid’s support is transformative.' Daniel says. 'It saves lives, protects livelihoods, and empowers communities to take the lead in finding sustainable solutions to their challenges.'
To the generous supporters of Christian Aid, Daniel expresses heartfelt gratitude. 'Your contributions have an immense impact on the ground. You’re not just helping people survive—you’re giving them hope and the tools to thrive.'
Through Daniel’s work and Christian Aid’s partnership, the seeds of resilience and change are being sown, offering a brighter future for some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.
