Som Nang’s Story

“I was so scared to talk to anybody including my sisters. I thought my life was ending. I was also afraid community members would look down at me.”

Som Nang grew up in the Bathambang province with her parents and three sisters. When she was still young her mother left to find work in another province but ended up remarrying, leaving her daughters at the mercy of their violent and abusive father.

At just 14 years of age Som Nang’s father raped her. The abuse continued and eventually lead to the birth of her son.

The government referred Som Nang to Hagar for support services including counseling, health care, food support and the appointment of a case manager. Thanks to Hagar and local duty bearers, Som Nang’s father was arrested and sentenced to prison for 7 years. She was also reunited with her mother who returned with her new husband and child after learning about the case.

In 2021, Som Nang’s family home was affected by flooding and the family were living in a tent and chicken shelter. After an assessment, it was clear the family needed a new home and Hagar worked with another partner organisation to share the cost. Hagar contributed about 60% of the material costs, and with the help of the family and local authorities, the new home was built.

Initially Som Nang was very scared of her father who threatened to kill her if she revealed the truth. However, she is now feeling much better emotionally as her and situation, mental health and psychosocial wellbeing have improved. She has been feeling safe and comfortable to live with her family without any challenges.

“Hagar gave me my life back. Hagar staff helped me stand up and get out from the dark shadow, to think about my future and my son. I got justice, a new home and new life. There are no words I can say to the Hagar team for their generous supports as it is more than I can say. Thank you very much.”

This year, with the support of Hagar, Som Nang was able to start a grocery business. The business is off to a good start earning around 20,000 Riels ($5) a day. Som Nang plans to expand her business with the hope she can earn more income to support her family and son.

“I am so grateful for my business even though it is still small because it helps me to stay with my son. I can take care of him and do other work at home at the same time. I feel confident in managing my business and plan to expand it so I can earn more money to support my son’s education,” she said.

Hagar continues to partner with other relevant stakeholders, including local authorities and NGO partners, to make sure Som Nang and her family remain safe and in a stable environment. Hagar will continue to work with this family intensively going forward and walk with Som Nang throughout her recovery journey.