Sylvia's story

When rebels stormed Sylvia’s village, she was abducted at gunpoint. The women who tried to flee were shot; those who refused to have sex were killed and fed to the pigs. Forced to become the ‘wife’ of a rebel commander, Sylvia witnessed horrific atrocities. She was held captive for four years - torn away from her husband, her young children, and her new-born who was only two months old.

Finally, Sylvia escaped. It was dangerous to run, but thoughts of her family and seeing her youngest child gave her courage. Sylvia endured a difficult journey. She had hopes of a joyful reunion with her family, but those hopes were crushed.

Her new-born and mother had died. Her husband didn’t want to be with her anymore because of what had happened. He had remarried.

When I remember what I have experienced I feel very bad.  This life was the worst.

Sylvia’s experiences left her deeply traumatised. But through your generosity, SCIAF was able to help her with extensive trauma counselling. She also received seeds, tools and training in how to grow food so she can provide for her family. With the profits Sylvia makes from selling her produce she can now pay for her children to go to school and sit their exams.

As a result of coronavirus, she and her community will also get help with essential food supplies, medical treatment and clean water, soap and vital information relating to the disease to help protect them.

Please continue to help people like Sylvia.