Forgotten Voices: The Struggles of Naga Children in Myanmar’s Hills | Samson Angnao

Far away in the hills of northwestern Myanmar is a place called the Naga Self-Administered Zone (NSAZ). It is home to the Naga people, who live in small villages surrounded by mountains and forests.

Life here is quiet and beautiful, but also very hard. The children in this area grow up without many of the things that other children have, like good schools, hospitals, and proper roads.

In the picture, we see a group of children standing in front of their homes. Their houses are made of bamboo and dried leaves. Some of the children are carrying their baby brothers or sisters on their backs. They are wearing colorful shawls to keep warm. Even though they face many challenges, they still smile. Their smiles show strength, even when life is tough.

Most of these children do not get to go to school every day. Some villages have no schools at all. Even when there is a school, there may be no teachers or books. Many children have to walk very far through forests and hills just to learn the basics. Some never get the chance to learn to read or write.

Healthcare is also a big problem. When children get sick, there are no nearby hospitals or doctors to help. Some families walk for hours on narrow and muddy paths to reach the nearest clinic. The roads are often unsafe, and during the rainy season, they become almost impossible to travel. But many times, help comes too late. Even common sicknesses can become dangerous in these villages.

Another big challenge is the lack of communication. Many villages have no phone network or internet. People live cut off from the rest of the world. When emergencies happen, there is no way to call for help. This makes life even harder for children and their families.

But one thing the Naga children have is their strong culture. They learn from their parents and grandparents. They sing traditional songs, wear special clothes, and take part in their festivals. Their culture gives them pride and identity. It helps them stay strong even when the world forgets them.

Still, tradition is not enough. These children need support. They need better schools, safer roads, proper communication systems, and health clinics. They should have the same opportunities as children in towns and cities. They should be able to dream of becoming teachers, doctors, leaders, or anything they want to be.

We must not ignore them. We must not forget them. It is time for the world to see these children, to listen to their stories, and to help provide them with a better future. They are not asking for much—just the chance to grow up healthy, learn in school, and live with hope.

The children of the Naga Self-Administered Zone are strong. They are brave. But they should not be alone in their struggle.

Let us stand with them. Let us care. Let us act.

~ Samson Angnao