Livelihoods Taking Root in Darfur

In Darfur, Sudan, ongoing conflict has collapsed local economies and deepened displacement. Christian communities face additional pressure from targeted violence, exclusion from aid, and the loss of church leadership. 

This project moves beyond emergency relief to support long-term stability by funding 10 small businesses led by Christian community leaders. 

Shai Fund’s livelihood grants are helping launch practical enterprises designed to operate in volatile conditions and generate daily income. 

Supporting Those Who Support Others 

Each beneficiary is a pastor, overseer, or ministry leader already serving vulnerable families. Strengthening their livelihoods allows them to provide for their households, remain in their communities, continue their ministry, and create small employment opportunities for others. 

Four of the ten businesses are led by women, reflecting the acute vulnerability and leadership of women in these communities. 

A Story from the Field 

Mariam, a women’s ministry leader, has long supported displaced and widowed women without any stable income herself. 

Through this project, she is opening a small café. She plans to employ three Christian women who previously had no source of income. The space will also serve as a place where women can gather more freely in an environment where they often face pressure because of their faith. 

Her experience reflects a broader pattern: these businesses enable Christian leaders to remain active and present in their communities. 

The Work Ahead

The challenges facing Darfur’s Christian communities are far from over.

Violence continues. Displacement persists. Access to aid remains uncertain.

But these ten businesses represent something durable for the 50+ family members supported with even more jobs expected as businesses grow. 

As seen in other fragile contexts from mine-clearing efforts in Myanmar to livelihood restoration in post-conflict regions lasting recovery begins when communities are equipped to rebuild for themselves .

In a context where aid access is limited and instability is ongoing, these businesses provide a measure of continuity for families and for the communities they serve.