Stories
June 24, 2026 • 2 min read
After fleeing the conflict in Sudan while pregnant, Manalil Alamin arrived in South Sudan without knowing where to find healthcare. A referral to a GOAL-supported clinic gave her access to antenatal care, a safe delivery, and continued support for both her newborn son and young daughter.
Since conflict erupted in Sudan in April 2023, more than one million people have crossed into South Sudan through Renk County, most of them South Sudanese returnees and Sudanese refugees. The large influx has placed significant pressure on local services and increased the need for healthcare, nutrition support, and maternal services.
With support from the European Union Humanitarian Fund, GOAL and Polish Humanitarian Action (PAH) provide integrated health and nutrition services in Renk County, helping refugees, returnees, and host communities access essential care.
Arriving with Uncertainty
When fighting forced Manalil Alamin and her family to flee Sudan’s Sennar State, she was pregnant and worried about what lay ahead.
After arriving in Payuer, she did not know where to find healthcare.
“In the beginning, I did not know where to go for health services. Everything was new, and I was worried about my pregnancy.”
A neighbour told her about Payuer Primary Health Care Unit, a clinic supported by the European Union Humanitarian Fund and operated by GOAL and PAH.
The recommendation changed everything.
Care When It Was Needed Most
At the clinic, a midwife listened to Manalil’s concerns and enrolled her in antenatal care. During regular appointments, health workers monitored her pregnancy and provided advice on nutrition, breastfeeding, newborn care, and staying healthy during pregnancy.
“The health workers treated me with kindness and respect. They explained everything clearly and supported me throughout my pregnancy.”
When labour began, Manalil delivered her son, Kadir Salih, safely at the clinic on 10 March 2026.
Today, Kadir is three months old and thriving. He has received all his routine vaccinations and continues to attend regular health check-ups.
After giving birth, Manalil also received postnatal support, including nutrition counselling and essential hygiene items to help care for herself and her newborn.
Building a Healthier Future
The clinic now supports Manalil’s entire family. Her four-year-old daughter, Malak Kidir Salih, lives with asthma, and access to healthcare is especially important during the rainy season when cold and damp conditions can trigger severe attacks.
“My daughter’s condition worries me most, especially when she becomes sick at night.”
Heavy rain often makes travel difficult, but Manalil continues to seek care whenever her children need it. She attends health education sessions, keeps up with vaccination appointments, and makes sure her children receive regular check-ups.
“Because of the care I received, I feel confident that my children can grow up healthy.”
For Manalil, the clinic is more than a place to receive treatment. It is a source of reassurance and stability during a period of profound change.
Her story reflects the experience of many displaced families: when healthcare is available and accessible, it helps parents protect their children, regain confidence, and begin rebuilding their lives.
