Kibira* was only five years old when fetching water became her primary responsibility — right around the time her father passed away.
Her extended family begrudgingly welcomed her, her mother, and her younger sister, Medina*, into their home. However, the children were soon forced to work long hours in and around the compound.
Growing up in these conditions, Kibira and her sister weren’t expected to thrive but were being prepped for a life of arduous work. In countries like South Sudan, as high as 73% of girls do not go to primary school and 52% of girls are married before the age of 18.
South Sudan is ranked as “one of the worst” places in the world to be a girl.
So, when Kibira’s mother died one year later of an unknown disease, she and her sister feared they would have to fend for themselves. These new circumstances also put both girls at high risk of human trafficking.
Thankfully a neighbor alerted LUV’s anti-trafficking network leaders to the sisters’ situation.
Reflecting now, she shares, “My mother and father left the two of us desperate. But I thank God that my sister and I are here at [LUV’s safe house]. Finally, we have aunties and uncles who take care of us and show us love.”
Kibira experienced the power of God’s love during a very painful time in her life.
Our indigenous partners, empowered through your generosity, are able to live out the very good news of God with us for the overlooked and ignored, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me…” (Matthew 25)
With your help, our trafficking prevention programs equip vulnerable children to thrive long-term and our mentorship programs assure kids that they are part of a global family that both loves them and wants them to flourish.
Your compassion helps provide the restorative space required to uplift children, like Kibira, so they can heal and dream of a brighter future.
Today, Kibira is growing strong in LUV’s protection and education programs. She is a sophomore in high school and dreams of becoming a doctor.
When asked what gives her hope and courage, she shared her favorite memory verse, “I will not leave you as orphans I will come to you.” (John 14:18)
Thanks to your generosity – hundreds of children and women like Kibira are being protected and empowered!
Help us invite in more girls like Kibira with a gift today.