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From trauma to strenght: Nadine's path to healing

In the Central African Republic, many people live in vulnerable situations amid conflict and chronic instability, leading to mass displacement and widespread protection risks.

As part of the ECHO HIP 25 project funded by the European Union, DRC deploys teams in rural communities to carry out protection activities, including the prevention of and response to gender-based violence. These efforts aim to strengthen access to essential services and reduce protection risks for affected populations in the sub-prefectures of Paoua, Markounda, Bocaranga, and Batangafo.

This testimony was collected by DRC’s field teams. Nadine is an assumed name used to protect the identity of the person concerned.

Nadine, a mother, takes care of all the expenses of her household alone. A brave and determined woman, she provides for her children through daily work, including ensuring that her children can go to school.

One evening turned her life upside down. After a long day at work, Nadine simply wanted to go out and relax. Instead, she was unknowingly drugged and, that same evening, became the victim of robbery and sexual assault.

A few days later, guided by a member of her community, she went to a listening space run by DRC. There, she agreed to share her experience and receive appropriate support. She was then referred to a partner health facility for medical examinations and care.

This period was particularly difficult. She describes experiencing profound emotional shock, struggling with dark thoughts, and no longer seeing a future for herself.

“I was subjected to stigmatization in my surroundings, and I felt ashamed to move freely because of the way others looked at me. I carried deep psychological distress within me,” she confides.

But little by little, the support she received began to change the course of her life.

The psychosocial support I received gradually helped me regain my strength and face this ordeal. Through the counselling sessions, the exchanges, and the constant support, I came to understand that my life did not end there

Nadine (not her real name)

Today, Nadine regularly attends her medical appointments and follows the recommendations of health professionals, allowing her to move forward and rebuild her life.

She also participated in awareness sessions and focus groups organized by DRC—safe spaces for listening and sharing, which she considers essential in helping her feel less alone and gradually rebuild her resilience.

Thanks to humanitarian aid from the European Union through the ECHO HIP 25 project, Nadine was enrolled in vocational training in skills such as knitting, sewing, soap-making, and pastry. She explains that she received continuous support from DRC’s psychosocial teams throughout her apprenticeship.

This opportunity helped her regain her self-confidence and begin to look toward the future with renewed hope.

Today, Nadine feels stronger. She is gradually reclaiming her place in her community, which once again recognizes and respects her. She expresses her gratitude to the humanitarian teams who supported and accompanied her through this ordeal.

Driven by her determination to build a better future for her children, she continues to move forward—rebuilding her life day by day.