LocationsJourney of hope: Hanan’s story in the Nuba mountains
September 3, 2024
Spanning nearly 600 kilometers, Hanan’s journey took her from Madani, through Sinar, Rabak, Rank, Juba, and Yida, to her final destination in Kauda, deep in the Nuba Mountains of South Kordofan. Her arduous path mirrors the plight of the nearly 11 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Sudan—the highest number globally—serving as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict in the country.
The Nuba Mountains, home to one of Sudan’s most isolated communities, have long suffered from marginalization and neglect. With limited access to education and economic opportunities, the community's struggles intensified with the escalation of conflict in June 2011. Schools were shuttered, and the risk of being left behind grew ever greater.
When Hanan arrived in the Nuba Mountains, she discovered a soap-making training course and eagerly joined. “I found this course incredibly important,” Hanan shared. For her, this training was not just an opportunity to acquire a new skill but a beacon of hope for a brighter future. Empowered by the training and support, Hanan now feels confident in her ability to launch her own business and train others in her community.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with Skills for Nuba Mountains (SNM), is dedicated to fostering sustainable livelihoods through a vocational training center in Kauda. This initiative goes beyond teaching skills; it aims to promote economic self-sufficiency among beneficiaries. The center offers training in various trades, including tailoring, soap making, welding, carpentry, and computer literacy, as well as essential life skills and business startup support. To date, nearly 200 trainees have benefitted from this comprehensive program, which includes counseling, personal coaching, and guidance.
The impact of these efforts extends beyond immediate skill acquisition. They provide long-term empowerment and hope, transforming lives and communities. Through such initiatives, UNDP remains committed to staying and delivering for those at the greatest risk of being overlooked, ensuring that even the most marginalized communities, like those in the Nuba Mountains, are given a chance for a better future.
While Hanan acknowledges the economic promise of soap-making—an essential product for daily life—she also notes the challenges of accessing affordable raw materials. “Starting and running a business is tough without UNDP’s support,” she admits. Nevertheless, she remains deeply grateful for the opportunity and is enthusiastic about passing on her new skills. “I feel empowered now and am determined to train others,” Hanan concludes.
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