Joyce Akandu: From displacement to self-reliance

Displaced by conflict, Joyce Akandu’s found herself in Bidibidi Refugee Settlement in Zone 4, Yumbe District. A refugee settlement is a place of hardships. Resources are scarce, and daily survival is a constant challenge. So even when determined to provide for her young family,
Joyce found herself in place of uncertainty.

However, soon Akandu’s life took a new direction when she joined skilling sessions by Luigi Giussani Foundation (LGF) under the Humanitarian Development and Peace Initiative for Crisis-Affected Populations project (DANIDA SPII). Implemented in West in partnership with Oxfam, the project was looking at providing sustainable solutions to refugees and host communities in Rhino Camp, Bidibidi, and Imvepi refugee settlements.
The project was a turning point in Akandu’s life. The green-skilling training taught her to make eco-friendly briquettes, a sustainable alternative to traditional fuels. With her new skill, Joyce began producing and selling briquettes, enabling her to earn an income and support her family. More than that, Joyce had found a path toward self-reliance.

Reflecting on her transformation, Joyce shared, "These skills have not only given me a way to support my family but also a sense of purpose. I feel proud to be a part of something that cares for our environment and our future." Joyce Akandu’s story is a testament to resilience and empowerment, showing how even in challenging circumstances, education and skills can unlock potential, fostering self- sufficiency and hope for a brighter future.