Sustainable IDP Resettlement Project Kicks Off in Western Bahr El Ghazal State

By Simon Deng

The Empower Youth Africa (EYA), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched the “Sustainable Resettlement and Integration of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)” project in Kor-Malang, Western Bahr El Ghazal State.

Deng Teng Achien, EYA’s field project coordinator, stated that the project is designed to address the pressing economic and social challenges faced by IDPs and host communities in Western Bahr El Ghazal State.

“The project will enhance existing income-generating activity (IGA) groups, strengthen Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), and implement targeted peace-building initiatives,” Achien explained.

“This project reflects EYA’s commitment to empowering vulnerable communities and fostering resilience through sustainable livelihoods and social cohesion.”

Lucia Remijo Abaker, a representative from Relief and Rehabilitation, noted that the project will enhance savings capacity, expand access to agricultural loans, and facilitate structured peace dialogues.

“The expected outcomes include improved business and financial management skills, with 80% of participants gaining access to cultivation and harvesting loans, and strengthened inter-communal relationships through collaborative economic activities and community-driven conflict resolution mechanisms,” Abaker said.

Randa Lawrence, a representative from UNDP, emphasised that the project will address the urgent need for economic empowerment for vulnerable groups, particularly lactating mothers and the elderly.

 Lawrence also highlighted that the project will tackle economic hardships and security concerns, including raising awareness about peaceful coexistence and risks such as gender-based violence, a crucial step for ensuring safety in the settlement.

“This initiative is not just about improving incomes; it’s about building trust, promoting dignity, and ensuring peaceful coexistence among displaced and host communities,” Lawrence stated.

The month-long project, running from August 1 to August 31, 2025, aims to support 500 internally displaced persons (IDPs) and vulnerable members of the host community in Kor-Malang, Western Bahr El Ghazal
State.

The inception meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the state ministry, local authorities, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, and community members from both displaced and host communities.