1. Introduction

Trauma Rescue Aid (TRAID) has been actively conducting English language classes and trauma counseling sessions for Sudanese women refugees in Mukono District, Uganda. These women, who have fled conflict and violence in Sudan, have faced immense trauma, including the loss of loved ones, destruction of homes, and separation from their communities.

 Many now face additional challenges in an unfamiliar environment with limited knowledge of the local language, making integration and access to essential services difficult.

In response, TRAID established a dual-focused program:

• English Language Classes: To equip the women with basic communication skills, facilitating their social and economic integration into Ugandan society.
• Trauma Counseling Sessions: To provide psychological and emotional support, fostering healing and resilience among the participants.

We are grateful to the Darfur Network for Human Rights (DNHR) for their generous donation of $500, which covered rent for the center for three months. Their support has been instrumental in maintaining a safe and stable environment for these activities.

2. Program Achievements in Three Months

2.1 Class Attendance & Participation

Over the past three months, we have achieved significant progress our activities both trauma counseling and English learning:

• We conducted 20 group counseling sessions, attended by 110 women. 25 teenage girls and 85 women.
• We provided 5 counseling sessions for 5 families at their homes, addressing cases of sexual violence involving teenage girls who are fearing to come to the center.
• We held 2 reconciliation meetings between families with tensions due to parental affiliations with Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia and Sudan Armed Forces (SAF).
• English class enrollment increased from 89 to 110 women in the last 3 months, showing growing interest and participation.

These numbers reflect the urgent need for such services and the commitment of the participants to improving their lives despite the challenges they face.

2.2 English Language Classes

The classes focus on basic communication skills and practical applications such as understanding signs, directions, asking for prices of goods in the market and accessing services.

• Basic greetings and self-introductions.
• Asking for directions and responding to simple questions.
• Understanding commonly used words and phrases in daily interactions.

Progress. Within the 3 months, participants demonstrated noticeable improvement in.

2.3 Trauma Counseling Sessions

The trauma counseling sessions are designed to provide a safe and supportive space where women can share their experiences and begin the healing process. The sessions covered topics such as.

• coping mechanisms.
• Building resilience and emotional strength.
• Managing stress and anxiety.

Impact. They have started to develop personal coping strategies that help them manage their emotions better. The group setting has also fostered a strong sense of community, allowing them to support one another.

3. Challenges and Future Needs

While the program has been successful, challenges remain:

• Increased demand. As word spreads, more women are interested in joining, necessitating expanded space and additional classes.
• Sustaining operations. Continued support is needed to cover rent, utilities, and stipends for trainers and counselors.

4. Call for Support

This program has made a significant impact on the lives of these resilient Sudanese women refugees, helping them gain both language skills and emotional support as they adjust to their new lives in Uganda. However, we need continued funding and support to sustain and expand these vital programs.

We invite organizations, partners, and individuals to support or collaborate with us in providing essential support to these women. Your support will enable us to continue offering English lessons, trauma counseling, and additional services to help them build a future filled with hope and opportunity.