Hope begins here: delivering babies safely in a place of displacement

A passion born from generations of care

"It feels so good to see someone bring another life into the world."

For Paula, a midwife at the Renk Transit Centre in South Sudan, those words from her grandmother inspired her to pursue midwifery.

Having grown up in a a refugee camp, Paula is now helping raise a new generation. As part of World Vision’s emergency response team, Paula has spent the past year helping displaced mothers deliver their babies safely in one of the most challenging environments imaginable. Her skill, compassion and unshakable dedication are a lifeline for families facing crisis, and a testament to the strength of local health workers on the frontlines.

Life at the transit centre: caring through crisis

Paula explains, "Right now, it’s dry season in South Sudan, and the temperatures can rise to over 40°C (104°F). The heat and harsh conditions make life even more difficult for the thousands of displaced people here.

Every day, we see between 20 to 30 pregnant women who come for checkups or urgent medical attention. Often, two or three of them arrive in active labour. Each day is unpredictable. Emergencies can happen at any moment—sometimes women collapse from exhaustion or heat. There are days with no births, but in a week we may deliver up to ten babies."

Supporting 12,500 displaced people in Renk

At the Renk Transit Centre, more than 12,500 people have arrived seeking refuge and safety. Over half are women and children, many of whom have experienced unimaginable trauma.

Conditions are incredibly challenging. Clean water, food, shelter, and medical care are scarce. World Vision has responded with a comprehensive plan to meet these urgent needs including, emergency food distribution to fight hunger, clean water access points and hygiene kits to prevent disease, essential items like blankets, cooking supplies, and shelter materials.

Health services for women and children

A vital part of our response is medical care. Our health centre provides:

• Primary care for common illnesses like respiratory infections and diarrhea
• Prenatal and postnatal care for pregnant and nursing mothers
• Psychological support for children and adults coping with trauma

These services help reduce the risk to maternal and child health in already vulnerable conditions.

Creating safe spaces and clean environments

Safe spaces have been set up for children to play, learn, and grow in a protected environment. These spaces offer emotional support, which is critical for their development and well-being.

In addition, our water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) teams are making a big impact through:

• Latrine construction
• Distribution of hygiene kits
• Establishing school health clubs
• Installing handwashing stations
• Providing buckets for safe drinking water
• Menstrual hygiene kits to keep girls in school

Standing strong amidst crisis

The situation in South Sudan and along its borders remains urgent. Conflict continues to displace thousands of families. But in the midst of hardship, World Vision is there and will continue to work.

People like Paula—and many others across World Vision’s global teams—are helping children survive, recover, and build a future. Their stories are powerful reminders that even in crisis, hope can be delivered.