South Sudan continues to face a dire humanitarian situation. The Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO 2023) estimates that 9.4 million people, 53% of whom are children need humanitarian aid and protection.

The targeted counties of Yei, Morobo and Kajokeji are faced with insecurity, violence and access constraints, caused by cattle migrations, attacks by non-signatory groups, food insecurity, economic and climate shocks and poor infrastructure. The area hosts, over 140,945 IDPs as of May 2023 and is a key entry point for refugee returns from Uganda and the DRC. This puts pressure on already limited resources within communities. Given the current window of stability, the situation in the targeted counties is relatively calm. Nevertheless, children remain vulnerable and face various forms of risks, such as forced recruitment, child labour, early pregnancies and Early and Forced Child Marriages (EFCM). According to authorities, over 39,000 girls and 44,000 boys will require education support. The proposed project will therefore aim to scale up holistic child protection interventions around prevention, risk mitigation and response. 

• Enhanced protection of vulnerable children and adolescents through comprehensive age-appropriate case management, Family Tracing and Reunification (FTR), alternative care and economic support including safe referrals to multi-sectoral services
• Improved well-being of vulnerable children, adolescents and young adults with their caregivers through PSS activities, Alternative Basic Education, skills building and Mentorship opportunities in safe and designated areas
• Increased capacities of stakeholders including community structures for enhanced protection of children, adolescents and young people from abuse, neglect, violence and exploitation
• Enhanced empowerment of adolescent boys and girls including young people through integrated practical skills building and alternative basic education

Expected results:  

Output 1: Provided case management support for vulnerable children

Output 2: Addressed the psychosocial support needs of children, and alternative learning options provided

Output 3: Capacitated stakeholders to create and maintain a protective environment for children and young people

Output 4: Refer young people to vocational training and provided specialized opportunities for employment

Results from previous phases:  

• The project ensured that urgent child protection and GBV needs were met. Additionally, a safe and protective environment for vulnerable children was promoted, through established community support services including six Child-Friendly Spaces (CFSs)
• Due to growing needs in the targeted locations, the project was extended to include Alternative Education, livelihood and skills support to ensure access to opportunities and reduce the risks of exploitation for children and adolescents
• A great level of community acceptance and active participation was a key enabling factor for projects success demonstrated within the community-based structures. The positive parenting sessions improved protective environment for vulnerable children and adolescents and improved parenting practices in families
• Plan utilized the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) coordination mechanism and referral pathway to support children, adolescents and caregivers in need of level 3 and level 4 MHPSS support. This support will be extended to the frontline workers hence Plan will develop a joint Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with respective partners