More than 400 kilometres. That’s the distance that nine-year-old Eva had to walk, alone, to escape terrifying violence in South Sudan. © UNHCR/Roger Burks
Three years later, she recalls the journey, and reflects on what life was like in Malakal, her hometown.
“We were living in a good situation,” Eva, now 12, remembers. “When the war wasn’t happening, life was good in South Sudan… we could get what we needed, and we got along well with our neighbours.”
Suddenly and without warning, it all changed. Armed forces attacked Malakal, bringing anguish and devastation to the town. Eva’s entire family – her father, mother and 14-year-old brother – was killed.
Grieving, Eva fled the only home she’d ever known. Over the course of six days, she ran and walked 243 kilometres, witnessing even more violence and suffering along the way.
She reached the town of Akobo, South Sudan – situated on the border with Ethiopia – and received some much-needed assistance in the midst of her gruelling trek. A kind woman saw her walking alone and offered to help. She gave Eva some money to continue her journey, as well as clothes and a pair of shoes.
Eva used much of that money – 1,000 South Sudanese pounds, or about US$7.50 – to pay for passage across the river to Ethiopia in a boat. Upon reaching the shore, she walked another six kilometres before she arrived at Tirgol transit centre, where she was welcomed by UNHCR staff.
At Tirgol, Eva received food, a sleeping mat, a jerry can, fresh water and shelter. She stayed at the transit centre five days before a UNHCR bus drove her and other newly arrived refugees to Nguenyyiel Camp, 160 kilometres away.
Since arriving at Nguenyyiel, UNHCR has supported Eva with shelter, food, water, sanitary materials, access to medical care and nutritional support. She has also begun attending school again, at a school operated by UNHCR and its partners. Eva likes studying English, mathematics, science and Nuer.
But her dream is to become a doctor.
“I need to serve my people. When I see them suffering, I can help them,” she explains, a clear vision of her future playing out before her eyes.
Amid the tragedy and sadness she has endured, Eva remains focused on building a better future for herself and for others. She is concerned not only with her own well-being, but also wants to ensure that her friends have an equal opportunity to reach their goals.
“Every human being wants to do their best,” she says. “I go to school, I have what I need, and I like to make sure that other children like me have what they need as well.”
*Please note: Name changed for protection reasons.
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