How DRC Cash Programming is Empowering Displaced People in Bentiu

To address this pressing reality, DRC has partnered with the World Food Programme (WFP) to implement cash for work through a Food Assistance for Asset project. 

As part of DRC’s Economic Recovery activities, this mechanism aims to offer a long-term solution that breaks the cycle of dependency on humanitarian aid.

By supporting vulnerable individuals in establishing small-scale businesses, they are empowered to attain self-sufficiency.

Even in situations where aid funds become inaccessible or hindered, displaced individuals can sustain themselves through their entrepreneurial endeavors. 

 Angelina Nyareek Jock, a 41-year-old single mother of nine children, resides in one of the internally displaced camps in Bentiu.

Having been forced to seek refuge in the camp following the devastating floods that ravaged her village a year ago, Angelina's story exemplifies the challenges faced by those affected by such circumstances. 

Angelina recounted that upon their initial arrival at the camps, it proved to be an exceedingly challenging period.

Providing enough food for her children and fulfilling their fundamental needs was a struggle. She used to engage in gathering firewood for sale, but the rising water levels had rendered it impossible to venture into the waters for this purpose.

Nonetheless, with gratitude towards the financial support extended by DRC, she managed to embark on a restaurant business. Presently, she is able to earn approximately 20,000 to 30,000 South Sudanese Pounds each day from this venture, which has become a significant part of her overall income. 

Cash distributions have been proven to be highly effective and reliable in providing assistance to internally displaced persons during prolonged crises.

This approach empowers individuals to make their own decisions on how to allocate the funds for their most urgent needs.

Furthermore, in situations where targeting specific individuals could exacerbate tensions within the community, cash distribution has emerged as a potent tool for poverty reduction, yielding numerous positive outcomes.