The South Sudan Water Crisis
The Lost Boys of Sudan
In 1985, millions died and millions were displaced as the people of Sudan became involved in their second civil war. Many of the children were boys who became known as the 'Lost Boys of Sudan'.
The Lost Boys of Sudan
Many of the Lost Boys traveled to Ethiopia, where they were allowed to stay for a while. However, when the military leader of Ethiopa was overthrown, the new ruler forced the Lost Boys to walk back to Sudan. On the way, soldiers fired into the masses of people, while driving them towards the Gilo, a river infested with crocodiles. Thousands of children died and only about 4,000 made it back to Sudan. Finally, the young children found refuge in camps such in Kenya and Ethiopia such as Kakuma and Ifo.
Going to America
About 4,000 of the Lost Boys came to America to rebuild their lives. Many of the Lost Boys were over the age of 18, and were placed in apartments together rather than in foster care. At first, it was difficult for them to adjust to the American culture, but many received an education, found jobs, and started a new chapter of their life.
The map shows the countries that many Lost Boys traveled through, and the refugee camp located in Kakuma.
The Kakuma camp that many Lost Boys of Sudan stayed at was in northern Kenya. The picture above is an aerial view of the refugee camp.
These are thousands of Lost Boys as they made their journey across the desert lands.
On the next page, learn about Salva Dut.
