Dongwei Miagak Kuol, a 14-year-old boy living in Maan-Aguer residential area of Pariang town, faced numerous challenges from a very young age. Orphaned at just six months old after losing his mother to breast cancer, Dongwei was taken care of by his aunt. His life took a difficult turn at the age of two when he developed a swollen right leg reportedly caused by environmental pollution. His condition worsened, leading doctors to recommend amputation to prevent further health deterioration.
Before receiving support from Integrated Humanitarian Aid, Dongwei’s family was struggling amidst insecurity, poverty, and limited access to basic needs. They had lost cattle and goats due to raids, and his aunt struggled to pay school fees for Dongwei’s education, which he was passionate about. Despite these hardships, Dongwei remained determined to continue his studies, aspiring to become a doctor one day.
Recognizing Dongwei’s vulnerability, IHA promptly identified and registered his case for comprehensive case management. After a thorough assessment and interview with his caregiver, IHA provided essential support, including counseling to address the emotional trauma and physical assistance to improve his mobility. Dongwei was referred to the South Sudan Red Cross for new clutches to aid his walking, as his previous ones were old and ineffective. “We are closely making follow-up with red cross South Sudan to ensure that Dongwei gets new clutches to support his mobility”, Kiir Juach, IHA Project Manager for Ruweng Said. Kiir added, “Dongwei’s disability couldn’t stop him from participating in youth activities in our youth center in Pariang. He is among the regular children that attend activities in the youth centre. Despite his mobility challenge, he often joins other children in football.”
Dongwei is in P5 at Dr. John Garang primary school. He dreams of becoming a doctor but the dream is challenged by his care givers inability to pay for his school dues. His care giver, Mrs. Kuwak Mialou Chol, is a vendor in Pariang Market. She sales wheat flour to meet the family basic needs. “Dongwei is a child that loves education but I am afraid that I might not support him much to meet his education dream”, Kuwak said while appreciating IHA so much for cash support they received from IHA in September 2025 which they used for paying the child’s school fees. “Dongwei and I stay alone making him so lonely when ever I go to the market to sale. IHA’s youth centre has provided him a platform to interact with other children who come to the youth centre. This has helped in supporting him mentally as the youth centre keeps him busy when he engages in plays with other children”, Kuwak noted. She continues, “I ask IHA to highly prioritize supporting children with disability as their needs are enormous given their mobility challenge. Children with disability are so vulnerable and that’s why it’s of great importance for more partners join hands with IHA and UNICEF to increase on the support to children with disability.”
Dongwei’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of targeted child protection and disability support. Through the dedicated intervention by IHA, he was not only provided with essential physical assistance, basic needs but also gained emotional and psychological strength. The anticipated provision of new clutches and ongoing counseling helped alleviate feelings of frustration and helplessness, enabling him to regain independence and actively participate in daily activities and education. This empowerment has significantly boosted his self-esteem and confidence, allowing him to dream beyond his current circumstances and aspire to a brighter future.
Moreover, the established link with service providers such as the South Sudan Red Cross ensures that Dongwei will continue to receive specialized support for his mobility needs, preventing further deterioration of his condition. This continuity of care is critical in maintaining his physical health and ensuring he can sustain his educational pursuits. The holistic approach taken by IHA—addressing both his immediate needs and long-term development—demonstrates a comprehensive model for child protection that prioritizes empowerment, inclusion, and resilience. Dongwei’s story inspires hope that with sustained support and community engagement, vulnerable children living with disabilities can overcome obstacles, realize their potential, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Dongwei joins a list of 99 children with disability supported by IHA with funds from UNICEF from July 2023 to October 2025.
END
Story by: Kiir Juach – Project Manager Ruweng Administrative Area | Edited by: Dibaba John – Head of Programme