Stories
July 30, 2025 • 2 min read
In Terkidi refugee camp, Gambela, a severely malnourished child, Wichiang Choat, was brought to a GOAL-run health facility by his mother, Chol Wal. The child received urgent medical care, made possible by support from the U.S. Bureau for Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM) and recovered from his condition. His mother expressed deep gratitude for the team's efforts, crediting them with saving her child’s life.
Terkidi is one of several refugee camps in Ethiopia’s Gambela region, hosting 72,890 South Sudanese refugees who have fled conflict and instability. GOAL, with generous funding from PRM, operates critical health and nutrition services in the camp to address malnutrition and limited access to essential care.
A Mother’s Determination
Chol Wal, 44, lives in Terkidi refugee camp with her family after being displaced from South Sudan. Of her seven children, six remain in the camp with their father, while she recently brought her youngest, a one-year and three-month-old boy, Wichiang Choat, to the GOAL health facility for urgent care. “He hasn’t been well. He had diarrhoea and other symptoms that left him weak and unresponsive, “she shared. Though she has faced many hardships, this was a particularly worrying moment for her.
Timely Medical Response
The child was diagnosed with severe acute malnutrition with medical complications, a life-threatening condition if left untreated. GOAL’s medical team acted quickly, administering therapeutic feeding and close follow-up care. “I can’t thank the team enough for their kindness and support. My child was very weak; it didn’t happen overnight. He had been sick for some time. Now he’s getting better every day, and I’m truly grateful for everything they’ve done.” Chol reflected. Her relief was palpable as her child began to recover.
Ongoing Needs and Support
While Chol’s baby received lifesaving treatment, the story is not unique. Many children in the camp face similar health risks due to limited food diversity and poor living conditions. “Thanks to PRM’s generous funding, we’re able to save lives and support the refugee community. I want to express my sincere gratitude for this partnership, which enables us to deliver vital care and spread hope and well-being. I hope this collaboration will continue,” said Alemayehu Reta, GOAL’s Refugee Programme Manager. The support provided is not just about addressing emergencies; it’s about sustaining life, dignity, and health in vulnerable settings.
