In eastern Chad, amidst the largest humanitarian crisis caused by the Sudanese civil war, 14-year-old Mahamat Djouma faces an overwhelming responsibility. Orphaned and separated from his family, he now cares for his five-year-old twin brothers while struggling to find work and food. Despite these challenges, moments of joy come through playing soccer, offering a brief respite from his daily struggles. The lack of resources and support systems exacerbates the plight of unaccompanied minors like Mahamat, who fall through the cracks of assistance programs.

The Daily Grind: Providing for His Brothers

Mahamat's life revolves around ensuring the well-being of Hassan and Hissein. Without parents to rely on, he must juggle caregiving with finding odd jobs to earn money. Living in a mud brick hut with no proper roof, Mahamat worries about protecting his siblings from harsh weather conditions. He often spends hours fetching water and preparing simple meals, all while longing for a stable environment where his brothers can thrive.

Life in the refugee camp is far from easy. Mahamat’s routine includes waking up early to fetch water from a distant stream, preparing porridge for breakfast, and then venturing out to find work. On days when he manages to secure employment making bricks, the income barely covers basic necessities. When not working, he plays with his brothers or takes them to child-friendly spaces set up by aid organizations. Yet, the constant worry about their future weighs heavily on him. “I don’t want them to grow up here,” Mahamat reflects. “I want them to have better opportunities.”

A Lost Childhood: Balancing Responsibilities and Dreams

Mahamat’s childhood has been overshadowed by adult responsibilities. Once a student with aspirations of becoming a teacher or doctor, he had to drop out of school due to financial constraints. Now, his focus is on survival rather than education. Despite this, he finds solace in small joys like playing soccer and teasing his brothers with affectionate nicknames.

Before the war, Mahamat enjoyed a simple life in Garadaya, Sudan. School, family dinners, and playing with friends filled his days. But everything changed when conflict erupted, leading to his mother’s death and father’s disappearance. Fleeing to Chad became a matter of life and death. Since arriving, Mahamat has faced numerous challenges, including limited access to education and healthcare. He dreams of a better future but acknowledges the harsh reality. “I have no choice,” he says, emphasizing his determination to provide for his brothers despite overwhelming odds. Experts highlight the urgent need for targeted support to help children like Mahamat, who bear the weight of adult responsibilities at such a young age.