This newsletter has been pub- lished by refugee youth under FilmAid’s Participatory Video Project in Refugee Camp. Its a result of a short Journalism training that was facilitated by Ibrahim Hirsi, a former refugee who is currently a Journalism student in where he resettled. NovemberTHE 2010, Issue No. 002 REFUGEEfrom the heart of Dadaab Refugee Camp UNHCR HIGH COMMMISSIONER VISITS DADAAB REFUGEE CAMP By Moulid Iftin Hujale

he United Nations High Commissioner for Refugee visited Dadaab refugee Tcamps along with Kenyan government officials and UN representatives last Septem- ber, to explore the needs of refugees and host communities, as well as evaluate the ongoing progress in IFO camp, Dadaab.

After a tour throughout the camps, Antonio Guterres met community leaders including religious, youth and representatives from minority groups. The leaders highlighted vari- ous issues that refugees faced.

An Ifo Camp representative condemned UN staff improper use of funding. “Funds that are meant to directly benefit refugees, go to constructions of offices and employment of new staffs,” Isnino said. “We better have few implementing agencies that would effectively serve the community and receive adequate funds.”

Other leaders presented issues including restriction of movements between the camps and other parts of the country. Youth repre- sentatives said restrictions of movement is a threat to the their dreams. They suggested having exposure trips and exchange programs would help them share ideas and experiences with other youths in the world.

Antonio Guterres addesses staff members in the UNHCR compund. Hagadera Camp Chairman Kasim Sheikh,said quality education is a challenge in the camps due to congestion of classrooms and inad- equate supply of facilities. SOMALI IMMAGRANT ELECTED TO A PUBLIC OFFICE Each leader voiced issues specific to their immediate community. Somalis took on their IN THE U.S needs for peace. A Sudanese leader empha- By Ibrahim Hirsi sized insecurity problems reflecting the con- flict between the Somali and Sudanese com- He was in a crowded refugee camp Restaurant. Samatar told crowds of African-American community in the state of Minnesota.” munities, when his community was allegedly in 17 years ago, but November his supporters including accused of murdering a small boy in Hagadera 2, he became the first Somali Mayor R.T. Rybak and U.S. Rep. Keith Though Samatar ran for the camp last July. immigrant to be elected to a public Ellison that Minnesota Somalis are position unopposed, his winning office in Minnesota and perhaps in part of the African-Americans, but the of the District 3 school board seat the United States. African-American communities do not is a milestone for the nearly 70,000 Dini Abdi Hussein, Ifo Youth Chairman men- consider him one of their own, Minnesota Somalis. tioned the need for work permits, “having equipped with the necessary skills to compete The 42-year-old founder and CEO of the African Development Center In response to their rejection, Samatar Samatar faces the challenge of of Minnesota, Hussein Samatar told the crowds “I wouldn’t be here if closing an academic achievement celebrated his historic election to the it weren’t for the people who came gap between students of color and Minneapolis school board in Safari before us. We are part of the new white students. His supporters say Continued on page 6 At a glance The Month of Ramadhan...pg 3 The Global Handwashing day...pg 4 ‘Refugee ‘of the Month...pg 7 Time for Malezi How the Dadaab United after Bora a health Dadaab marks the a decade, insight on the Global separated in a importance of Refugees Handwashing week, the tale of breastfeeding.... marked the day in style Amin Amey. PG 6 Holy Month »The REFUGEE issue 002, pg. 1 2 BLA»The BLA REFUGEE BLA Exero issue 01,002, 5555 pg. 2 Abdi Abdullahi Mohamed EDITORIAL The former English teacher of THE TEAM.... Midnimo Primary School in Ifo, I am very much pleased to welcome you to Abdi Abdullahi, 27, fled from the second edition of the THE REFUGEE news- Moulid Hujale Somali where he was born and letter. It has been quite busy edition working raised, and resettled in Ifo Camp on very many articles, comments, feedbacks Twenty-two-year-old Vice-Secretary in 1991 in search for a better and sharing experiences of the previous issue. for Ifo Refugee Youth Consortium, life. Mohamed who joined the Moulid Hujale, has been involved Participatory Video Project last The refugee newsletter has been receiving in journalism for some time. Hujale year is considered to be one of an overwhelming number of comments and was a member of a press club during the best story writers among the reactions expressing interests and courage his high school years. He is currently participants. He has documented from the entire Dadaab complex since the the editor-in-chief of Dawn — an Ifo many stories about life in the first edition that was published in September newsletter published twice a year. camps, including The Betrayed this year. Not only in This experience makes Hujale one Sector, Mysterious Love, Swelling Dadaab but from as of the few people whose journalism Wallets and many more. far as USA, CANADA work have been published. Abdi was appointed the Editor-in-Chief for The Refugee. and . They Hujale was appointed the Managing Editor of The Refugee. all shared their expe- riences through the newsletter website Akune Atale Hussein Hassan and posted encour- aging feedback to our Akune Atale, 22, was born and raised in . He He is only a from-two student in mail box. completed his middle and elementary school in Ethiopia. Community Secondary School in Due to instability in his homeland, Atale sought refuge in Hagardera, but Hussein Hassan, I am honored to let Dadaab where he completed his high school. 22, has a dream of bringing you know that, in this Atale then joined FilmAid in 2009 in search for better skills on peace and tranquility to his war edition you will find camera operations. He has developed skills on photography torn through journalism: articles and com- and video production. There a dream that is not common for ments that crossed is nothing that Atale is more many Somali men. He fled from international boarders; Indicating that the comfortable with than being Somalia in 1992 and resettled voice of Dadaab youth is heard overseas. The the man behind the lens, in Ifo Camp. Hassan who joined story of Siraji from Canada, a refugee student thanks to FlimAid International. Participatory Video Project last sponsored by WUSC (world university service Atale is quick to say that he October, said he cannot thank of Canada) gives a clear picture of his life and wants to become a journalist, FlimAid enough for the role they experience in Canada. His encounter is very though he has always aspired played in his life. Hassan said that he has learnt how to use ironical and totally different from what he to be a lawyer before he joined cameras really well during the six months he has been with believed. His perception reflects what most Participatory Video Project last FlimAid. of us thought about life outside there, a place year. Hassan is a staff reporter for The Refugee. like Canada. Atale was appointed the new News Production Coordinator It has also attracted a huge number of young for The Refugee. potential reporters that promised to contribute to the newsletter worldwide. We now have 7 Liban Rashid more reporters tapped from the youths within The Editor Welcomes contributions the refugee camps in Dadaab and abroad Liban Rashid, 23, was born from interested persons making the refugee team a total of 15 (five and raised in Somalia. Because female). This news letter intends to reduce the of the civil war, he evacuated all over the global refugee community’s dependency syndrome. from Somali in 1991, and has who have something to share. The youths here strife to stand on their feet and been an Ifo Camp resident work together since then. Rashid who joined FlimAid in 2009 is the current write to: Participatory Video Project [email protected] I would like to take this oppor- facilitator. Rashid, the most tunity to specifically thank skillful camera man among his FILMAID international for peers, has shot and produced supporting us and also helping many documentaries about life in the camps, including Black the idle youths explore their Smith and Khat. potential. Rashid was appointed the new photographer of The Refugee.

TO THE EDITOR.... I would like to take this opportunity to spe- THE TEAM cifically thank FILMAID International for sup- I found your newsletter on Facebook, since I am porting us and also helping the idle youths linked to the UN Refugee Resettlement site. Your explore their potential. We are very grateful Editor-in-chief: newsletter is very informative and I forwarded the for the consistent courage and support you Abdi Abdullahi web site address to my coworkers. I have been offered throughout the first two publications. interested in refugees most of my life and I cur- Managing editor: rently work at a refugee resettlement agency in My appeal to any well wisher is to support Moulid Hujale Idaho, USA. I have worked with many refugees the newsletter, as it is a way of advocating News Production Coordinator: from Somalia, Congo, Rwanda, Tanzania, and and documenting the real needs from the real other locations in Africa and other parts of the people. Never hesitate to contact us, should Akune Obang Atale world. I strongly encourage you in your work on you have something to share with us. Your Photographer: this newsletter. The only thing I would suggest is comments and feedback is always welcome. Liban Rashid to get more women involved in the process. This would include both the journalism training and On behalf of the entire team, I would like Staff Reporters: in interviewing for stories. This will help prepare to appreciate all those who contributed to Hussein Hassan , Obang Adhom Didumo, young women for the work force and life in other the refugee newsletter and helped the team Peter Oman, Mohamed Abdi Gelle countries. Even if they do marry, in many countries in one way or the other. We will never fail to both the husband and wife must work to support live upto the confidence you have in us. And Mohamed Ali Hassan the family. This is especially true now due to the we shall stop at nothing until our dreams turn Kowsar Asad warsame current economic situation in the United States. into reality. Ebla Abdullahi Good luck in your endeavors and I am looking Moulid Iftin Hujale, Managing editor, [email protected] forward to your next newsletter! THE REFUGEE NEWSLETTER Ifo refugee camp Dadaab, Kenya. www.therefugeeonline.wordpress.org Sincerely,

Heidi Carlton Exero»The 01, REFUGEE 5555 BLA issue BLA 002, BLA pg . 3 THE MONTH OF RAMADHAN How Dadaab Refugee Camp Marked the Holy Month A MASS EXODUS OF CELEBRATIONAS

ABDIRASHID ABDULLAHI By Liban MOHAMED, The people living in Dadaab are among Dadaab refugee camp is home to more than the billions of Muslims around the world 300,000 refugees with a majority of them being celebrating Eidul-Fitri ‘the festival of Somali descent who are predominantly sunni- breaking the fast’in the wake of their poor muslims observed the holy month of RAMADAN. living conditions.

Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and Inspite of the fact that muslims have comes once in a year. It is obligatory to every two major religion observances each healthy, adult Muslim where as the weak, the year –Ramadhan and Hajj,Eidul-fitr is a sick, children, travelers and menstruating corresponding holiday connected with women are among those exempted. Those Ramadhan which is observed according required to observe the holy month abstain to the lunar-based callender which is from eating, drinking, having sexual intercourse eleven days shorter than solar callender . (married couples) from dawn to dusk. Muslims in Dadaab observed this Fasting is not just about refraining from eating joyous three day celebration that comes and drinking until sun set. This is what most at the end Ramadhan and at beginning of people misunderstand hence finding it difficult shawal, the ninth and the tenth months to practice. To get a glimpse reminder of what it respectively. entails, sheikh Harun Ahmed explains: “Fasting In the beginning of shawal all Muslims in calls for a lot of sacrifice a part from stopping to Dadaab give to charity of donations which eat or drink. It is about exerting control over the is obligatory to those who can afford and mind. This involves restraining anger, exercising is particularly entitled to the needy ones personal discipline and preparing oneself to “this is the high time to give charity dona- serve as a good Muslim. One has to be cautious tion to the poor so that they celebrate in every single step while fasting. In fact the with family and friends the completion whole body fasts not the mouth a lone” sheikh of the month of blessing and joy” sheik Harun concludes. Kamal Abdi said.

Ramadan is a month of peace and love in which Before the day of Eid, during the last individuals are encouraged to burry differences, exchanged daily. It is very common that writings with words like RAMDAN KARIM few days of ramadhan each muslim family to forget and forgive and to renew both human relatives in Diaspora send a lot of money grace the entire market. who was capable gave a determined and spiritual relationship Therefore, it contrib- to families and friends in the camp. amount of the stable food in the camps utes to overall principle of making the individual “We are excited, this equivalent to two and half kilograms by more human, more considerate and generally a The demand“Ramadhan is a month of peace month (ramadan) has each adult family member as a donation more responsible member of the society. for goods is no comparison” says to the poor. high and you and love in whic individuals Abdi aziz Abdilatif, a “This is the day when every muslim is In this way, the month of Ramadan ultimately will see many father of four children happy rich or poor,” added sheik Kamal benefits society not just the individual. It does people go are encouraged to bury their Abdi. it in part, by setting a standard for behavior not on a shop- This donation includes rice, barely, only in this month but during the rest of the year ping spree. differences” dates amongst others, and date etc to and, indeed, every year of a Muslim life. Decorative ensure that the needy can have a holiday meal and participate in the celebration. The blessings of Ramadan were evident in This donation has its name as ‘sadaqah Dadaab camp. Businesses flourish all over. al- fitr’ meaning ‘charity of fast breaking’ More goods come and bulky food stuffs are Interestingly, on the day of Eid Mus- lims in dadaab put on their best outfits continued on page 1 and gather early in the morning in out- door locations to perform the Eid prayer. This consists of a sermon followed by a UNHCR chief visits Dadaab Refugee Camps short congregational prayer. for job opportunities in Kenya would go refugee status determination after tures such as social amenities are com- After the Eid prayer the refugees scat- prepare the refugee for a better future.” being registered. pleted. tered to visit various families and friends to offer gifts and make phone calls to Mr. Guterres responded by stating “We are called asylum seekers before The visit marked his third visit to distance relatives to give well wishes of that trips outside the camps and work our status is cleared, which takes too Dadaab with the first having been in the holyday. These activities traditionally permit were not easy. long” he said. UNHCR was requested 2008. continue for three days. “Muslims give to accept the Ogadenia community as thanks to Allah for his bounty and mercy Immigration Assistant Minister Fran- refugees like any other community. and celebrate the holidays wishing each cis Baya stated that he other well”, said sheik Abdirahman Ali. “In could not promise work “Department of refugee affairs A repre- this respect any language is appropriate permits but will have sentative in asking blessings to Allah”,adds Sheik to table it in front of his will make the process shorter from Kenya Abdirahman Ali. seniors. Govern- for medical cases and those in ment Dadaab refugees uttered some he went on further to called for common and traditional Arabic greeting state that “The Depart- need movement passes,” peace in intended for the day, such as: “ kulu’am ment of refugee affairs Somalia. wa entum bil-kheir” meaning “ may will make the process shorter for medi- He then urged Somali community every year find you in good health”. “ Eid cal cases and those in need movement leaders to solve their problems before mubarak” meaning “ happy Eid” and may passes,” Baya said. Issues regarding edu- it goes beyond their capacity. “The Allah accept from us and from you. cation. The Ministry of Education will community have to respect the host assess the quality of education which country and adhere to their policy,” he Above all, Muslims in Dadaab acknowl- the refugees receive. said. People must also learn to work edged and admired the exclusiveness of together regardless of their ethnic this day since there was no dispute over A represetative of Ogadenia refugee background. Only then harmony can Hagadera Camp Chairman, the sighting of the moon to celebrate on community said his community feels be achieved, he added. Kasim Sheikh the beginning of shawal. “It was a bless- excluded because they had to under ing from God to unify Muslims across the Mr. Guterres said that constructions globe”, said sheik Kamal Abdi. in Ifo 2 are underway; and relocations will commence once important struc- 4 BLA »BLAThe BLA REFUGEE Exero issue 01, 5555002, pg. 4 HANDWASHING TIPS HOW TO EFFECTIVELY WASH YOUR THE GLOBAL HANDWASHING DAY HANDS critical to meeting the Millennium Devel- Dadaab camps in the year 1991 hence a Dadaab Joins opment Goal of reducing deaths among great milestone. The Universe in children under the age of five by two-thirds In Ifo camp the day was dedicated to by 2015. children basically schools hygiene club Celebrating the Global The global Public Private Partnership for and SCUKs (save the children UK) children Handwashing Day. Hand Washing with soap (PPPHW) works club. The day started with a procession to save lives by promoting the awareness with banners and messages by children, of this simple practice. teachers, hygiene promoters and CHWs. IBRAHIM ALI MAHAT (PORRIDGE) The theme for the day is CLEAN HANDS Besides prayers the second mark of the Hand washing with soap is the most SAVE LIVES (2010). program was a 45 minutes hand wash with effective and inexpensive way to prevent CARE International in Kenya being the soap session headed by mother hygiene diarrheal and acute respiratory infections, lead agency in the Global hand washing Lucy Kipturgot, CARE hygiene promotion which takes the lives of millions of children day celebration this year at IFO Refugee department. 1. Wet hands in developing countries every year. Togeth- camp, worked together with other imple- The hand wash session started with the er, they are responsible for the majority menting partners in planning, organizing agency representatives and camp leaders running water of all child deaths. Yet, despite its lifesav- and conducting the event. This had never as in the picture and ended with school ing potential, hand washing with soap is been done before since the inception of children following the steps cited by WHO seldom practiced and difficult to promote. (World Health Organization).

2. Apply soap “The challenge is to transform hand wash- Guests assembled to demonstrate ing with soap from an hand washing with soap lead by the 3. Rub hands together abstract good idea into UNHCR, Head of Sub-office Richard an automatic behavior Ackland. vigorously for 20 seconds (sing performed in homes, Generally 1850 children, 45 guest/ “Happy Birthday” twice) while schools, and commu- agency representatives and youth nities worldwide.” Says washed hands with soap during the cleaning in between the nails Emmanuel ouk, Care, celebration excluding 1450 ( facebook Hygiene project officer. friends) who promised to do the same Turning hand wash- on 15th of October 2010. This should 4. Rinse hands well under ing with soap before serve as a reminder every year of of our eating and after using achievements towards the reduction of running water the toilet into an mortality rates in children. ingrained habit could save more lives than It is said that the best gift to a child is 5. Dry hands using a paper any single vaccine or a toy but washing the child’s hands with medical intervention, soap and running water after playing towel or tissue. cutting deaths from with the toy is the best option. diarrhea by almost half and deaths from acute respiratory infections by one-quarter. A vast change in hand washing behavior is

THE FIRST YOUTH FESTIVAL IN THE HISTORY OF IFO CAMP.

LIBAN RASHID They prepared Japanese community represented by YOKO MOHAMED drama, poems, and his colleague were made to take part. traditional The first youth festival dance and the Also in the program was a speech con- in the history of IFO camp UNIQUE SUMO test where three youth finalists presented was celebrated on 25th (JAPANES) their oratory skills through speaking to the September this year. GAME. public about problems the youth face in The long a the refugee camps. The three of them were Youth organizations waited day a warded certificates. had something to show came at a and to be proud of. There time when An estimated 2000 people graced the have been many ceremo- every one was occassion and it was voted the best among nies like the International eagerly wait- all the previous ceremonies organized by Day of the Youth, World ing to witness implementing agencies in the history of Refugee day, etc. how- the youth day. Dadaab camps. ever, these ceremonies “In fact it was Some of the major objectives were met. are organized by agencies a very chal- This was proved by the number of youth with the help of UNHCR. lenging task groups that applied for registration, com- The refugee youth but we had to munity leaders appreciating and recog- umbrella, consisting of do it to prove nizing the youth umbrella and more over, youth from different our leadership the working relations between the youth groups, took the liberty to as youth and organization and the agencies in Dadaab organize a youth festival tize the youth to tackle various social prob- as part of our camps. independently to motivate the youth in lems within the camps, such as drug abuse, civilian right” said Dini Abdi Husein, IFO the camps. Having been equipped with HIV/AIDs, as well as to raise the public rec- youth chairman. “Hopefully, we shall celebrate the same the skills, youth in IFO organized this event ognition of the refugee youth Umbrella way and even better next year if all goes on their own. organization among refugee communities With the diverse nationalities dwelling in well” says Ebla abdullahi, United Girls Vice and partner organizations. the camp it was easier to design and intro- Chairlady. The idea of the youth festival came from The first step was to develop proposals. duce a very interesting game known as Mr. Yoko, an inter community youth offi- The proposal was displayed in front of all SUMO game. This game is played in Japan: cer from UNHCR. It was highly welcomed. agency representatives who shared their Simply two men wrestle each other in a However, the question of the budget was a inputs and welcomed the idea with enthu- circle drawn on the ground without pinch- big challenge. Mr. Yoko wanted the youth siasm. ing or boxing and he who is thrown out to stand and say “yes this time we can do Having very many youth groups regis- of the circle would loose. Thanks to Yoko it by ourselves” in an attempt to cut the tered under the umbrella organizations who made it possible. Eight different men dependency syndrome. that has lingered made it easy to have quite a number of from different nationalities including the on for years. The major objectives of the youth groups participate in the festival. youth festival were to mobilize and sensi- Exero»The 01, REFUGEE 5555 BLA issue BLA 002, BLA pg . 5 A PACK FOR THE DADAAB YOUTH REFUGEE LIFE! THE YOUTH EDUCATION PACK (YEP) Ebla Abdullahi. By Kowsar Asad Warsame- Ifo Life is never good in a refugee camp. boredom, unemployment and drug them a hand in modifying their business. It is a life of poverty and despair. There for turning young people living in the The Youth Eduation Pack (YEP) project Moreover, their business attracts a lot of is lack of enough food, poor sanitation camps towards violence and crime. was established in 2007 in both Dadaab customers. and shelter. The access to secondry and town and Hagadera camp and later “I really enjoyed the services of YEP higher education is limited. For the last Women and children make up the expanded to IFO and Dagahaley in 2009. graduates, I had no idea until when a friend two decades, hundreds of thousands highest percentage of the refugee Many youth who drop out of school and introduced me to them and I decided not of refugees have been living in Dadaab those who could not qualify for second- to seek services from any other place.’’ population. Despite the fact in many camps. This means that those children cases they do not play an active role in ary education due to the limited chances, Zamzam says. born during the establishment of the took the advantage and got enrolled in Learning in the YEP centers is cur- the crisis that has displaced them from camps are now fully matured. Bloody to the YEP centers. Parents and the com- rently flourishing and more students are their homes, even though they are the conflicts in Somalia have caused the munity leaders appreciated this initiative enrolled every year. These students come ones who suffer a lot. and started working towards the empow- from diverse background; they not only world’s largest refugee camps with hungry and exhausted refugees bored into this wind swept camps in the Refugee women and children are one neighboring Kenya. of the most vulnerable groups in the world. They came to refugee camps illiterate and with little or no previous Outside the distribution centre in employment experience other than IFO Camp, refugees transport their tribal dialect, which is common for food using donkey carts and wheel- uneducated and rural women. The barrows. There is nothing worse than vulnerability of the refugee women, seeing youth in the camps sitting idle especially in dadaab camps plus lack under trees in front of agency gates of either legal or traditional support or and in the market places frustrated, remedies combined with the ongoing depressed and vulnerable. For sure, trauma of being a refugee, magnifies that lack of opportunities available the consequences of gender operation. within the refugee camps for younger people is the major cause. Most women and girls in dadaab erment of youths. This young boys and acquire vocational skills but also share ideas refugee camps are made to do odd girls are vulnerable to HIV/AIDS and other and experiences. Students put concerted Most youths in the camp turn to keep jobs like fetching water, cooking social vices. efforts to fully grasp all that is taught. In themselves busy by chewing miraa and washing clothes for the family. an attempt to satisfy hundreds of thirsty also known as “khat” (the leaves of the Moreover, refugee women and girls are However, many did not benefit from students NRC is planning to introduce new shrub Catha edulis which are chewed frequently subjected to rape, mutilation, this privilege due to the fact that the proj- courses such as plumbing, welding and like tobacco. It’s illegal in countries like and exploitation in the camps. ect was started when a higher percentage fabrication, leatherwork and tannery, food U.S.) But those who chew describe of the youth were engaged in negative and beverage production and housekeep- it as creating strong and high visual activities. The project was expanded and ing and laundry. character that shows above all and Younger children are the next the concerned authorities are planning to During every graduation the Nor- makes them at the top life which is the generation who will stand to rebuild have a better approach towards the devel- wegian Refugee Council (NRC) organizes opposite. the distorted nations and the war torn opment of young refugee people. One graduation ceremonies to award students countries. Women and mothers are the such step is engaging the graduates in and motivate them. On February 4th stepping stone to accomplishing those activities/business that is relevant to the 2010 Youth Education Pack (YEP) centers Some say it creates brain imbalance dreams. So we better equip them with kind of course they did. This helps them observed their second graduation cere- and no thoughts in this harsh life in the necessary skills and support instead nurture their talents and skills. mony. A total of 369 students including178 the camps. It has caused many youths of harassing them. They are the future of The 2008 graduates were issued with girls graduated during a colorful event to lose their hopes, great expectations tomorrow. start up kits in October 2009 and were which was graced by government officials and also their dignity. Whenever one supported in forming cooperatives. Some who emphasized the importance of the gives advice to an idle youth, they electrical skills graduates were attached to refugees to abide by the laws of the land. respond by saying that there is no UNHCR or LWF for apprenticeship. Others Also present were agency representatives, point of wasting time in class with joined private contractors and did the parents and Friends of the graduates. no future. This reflects that a large installation of solar power in the YEP cen- The refugee Community was urged to number of youth who completed ters. Masonry graduates were attached to allow girls to benefit from the program NRC shelter program and participated in which also caters for young Mothers. The their secondary education are not slab making. The tailoring graduates were students graduated in various Skills includ- employed. awarded contracts for uniform making in ing secretarial, tailoring, masonry, electron- the four YEP centers. ics and hair & beauty skills. Growing gangs among youth in the The centres continue to empower the camps is worrying the community and The graduates find suitable places youth to take control of their lives and be implementing agencies who blame in the market and Start new businesses dependent. with passion and confidence. The com- munities are very proud of them and give REFUGEES ATTITUDE TOWARDS HIV/AIDS

MOHAMED ALI HASSAN (GARI) stigmatization, finger-pointing and of munities therefore live more positive than biggest load of nonsense I ever heard’ an cause-speculation” she said. the Somalis. elder murmured. HIV/AIDS, a devastating killer disease is A non-Somali teenager living with the “That is blatant example of sheer arro- spreading in the camps. The negative attitude of the Somalis disease discussed, ‘it is not all doom and gance, it’s embarrassing” another elder said The big question is why the disease is towards the disease is a real catastrophe gloom for me, and I can still survive.” The in a life exhibition of persons living with the rampant despite all awareness? Many are and this fanned the flames for the virus non-Somalis living with the disease are disease.The disease will keep striking if the convinced that the major cause of the dis- leading to its current good run. Positive relatively higher but still their optimistic Somalis fail to change their attitude and a ease is sexual intercourse. attitude from the Somalis can save many approach created fewer atmospheres for mass number of victims will be realized in lives if taken seriously.Another shocking the disease, a character, the Somalis are the camps sooner than later. The poor attitude of the Somalis, the scenario was when two patients were lacking.A good number of non-Somalis No strangeness rather than clearing the dominating community in Dadaab camps, booed in Ifo market forcing them to rush attend the VCT daily for counseling, medi- white blood cells hence bidding war to create an atmosphere for the disease to be home with their tails between their legs. cal attention and further testing. The Soma- your life, be realistic and face it, saving lives spread in the camps. The much-maligned This can cause further damage as patients lis are rarely found here. ‘We handle a good is a top priority. carriers are forced to hide rather than are prone to mental anguish in such situa- number of HIV/AIDS patients everyday; seek medical attention. A visit to one of tion. The percentage of Somalis living with but the ‘shameful’ or ‘ill-fated’ according to the HIV/AIDS patient was evidence of the the disease is 0.1% though the unreported Somalis appear here in rare cases’. A VCT poor treatment people face. She was tested cases make the statistics inaccurate. counselor said. positive and never revealed her secret to Aparts from the Somalis, there are other The Somali elders term the disease as anybody even her family for almost 7 years. communities like the Gambella, Ethiopians, a strange scenario where the victims are “If I reveal, I have to be ready for the ugly Oromo, Sudanese, Congolese and many criminals regardless of its cause. ‘It is the others living with the disease. These com- 6 »BLAThe BLAREFUGEE BLA issueExero 002, 01, p 5555g. 6 A CRY OF HELP examination and was explained that her family’s name appeared on UN refu- A Flight Delay the other medical screenings will be gee agency’s notice board. A MATTER OF LIFE OR DEATH: By Abdi conducted in Nether- lands. Abdullahi “In the beginning every one was “A few days after my medical exami- happy because we thought it was our nation, I was called to attend a cultural flight schedule, but on reaching the She still endures the agony of not ful- orientation class that lasted for three notice board we realized that it was filling her dream of leading a new life in days,” she retorted. The cultural ori- UNHCR re-interview,” she said. America due to the many years she has entation is a process that all the refu- been waiting for her flight. Currently gees must go through as part of their Then after attending the UNHCR re- indigent and helpless the 30- year-old resettlement process. interview, she was told that the Dutch refugee lady says her flight delayance embassy has withdrawn her case with- prospect of traveling to America,” Khatra devastated her family’s hope for better During her orientation, Khatra said out giving concrete reasons on her dis- said. life in America. she was given information on how her missal. flight will be and that she will stay in “They are inhuman and have not In spite of the fact that it is a pain on her Khatra (LAST NAME) was one of the Amsterdam, the capital city for the first done something wise and rational to family’s neck, today her 8-year-old son few lucky ones who were posted for eight months only. And later will be save the worsening health complica- who is living with cardiac complication has resettlement in 2005, after her son relocated in any of the other towns in tion of my son,” she said. developed a physical deformity on his chest Shukri Abdinoor Ahmed was diag- the Netherlands.But within the same as a result of the transposition of great ves- nosed with a heart complication and year the embassy induced her to go On January 2007 the UN refugee sels in his heart. fulfilled the medical criteria for resettle- back to the camp as she waited for agency referred and presented her “A cardiologist has reviewed his case and ment. her flight. “I can’t really forget when case to the US embassy that was cor- advised a heart surgery outside Africa, but “On January, 2006 I was taken to they told me to ride a bicycle so that dially received. “By July the same year, how can we do that without an external Nairobi to attend my first resettlement I reduce my heavy weight,” she said. I accomplished all stages of U.S. reset- help” she asked. interview with the Dutch embassy,” she “On our arrival at the camp we sold tlement processes and I can’t see any “He cannot play, run and attend a normal said. all our properties and instead bought learning class,” Khatra said in tears. the items we required for the flight As her family was in Nairobi she tells preparation,” added the displeased that her family underwent a medical Khatra.In December, the same year it check up which was entirely a physical was very early in the morning when

SOMALI IMMAGRANT ELECTED TO A PUBLIC OFFICE IN THE U.S

Continued from page 1

they think he may bring a stronger be good role models.” sensibility to helping immigrant Amina Salah, a campaign organizer, said students. Minnesota Somalis have made history in the states. “We sent the first Muslim to the Samatar, the youngest of five U.S. Congress, and tonight, the first Somali- children, did not know he would American to a public office,” Salah said. hold a seat on the Minneapolis At the end of the party, Samatar held school board when he graduated hands with a Somali singer who took the from Somali National University in stage and together they danced as she 1991 four days before the bloody sang a popular Somali song that carried civil war erupted. a message about the responsibilities that come with leadership. After years in a refugee camp in Kenya, Samatar resettled in the TO ADVERTISE ON THIS United States in 1993 with no basic SPACE skills in the English language. Afterstudying English for many AbuHOTEL, Hureira IFO CAMP years, Samatar eventually enrolled PLEASE WRITE TO at the University of St. Thomas where he graduated nine years ago with a Master’s in business therefugee.dadaab@gmail administration. Today he is the leader of the Minnesota African Development Center, a local organization that seeks to make immigrants communities more economically stable. ABU HUREIRA HOTEL WUXUU KAMID YAHAY HOTELADII UGU HOREYEY EE LAGA AAS AASO XERADA IFO. WUXUU KUYAALAA SUUQA BOSNIA GAR AHAN WADADA MASAJIDKA IBNU MASCUUD. Zahra Ahmed, a campaign ABU HUREIRA RESTAURANT WAXAA KUGU DIYAARAA SHAQALO KUXEELDHEER KARINTA CUNTADA, HAGAJINTA DALABAADKA QAAS AH. organizer, said Samatar’s victory is IYO SHAQALO U GAAR AH SO DHOWEENTA IYO ADEEGA MACAAMIISHA. deeply personal and symbolic for WAXAD KAHELEYSAA CUNNADA NOOCYADEEDA KALADUWAN Somalis around the world. CABITAANKA, SODADA, JUUSKA NOOC KASTO AD U BAHANTAHAY. WAXAA KALOO SII DHEER QOL U QAAS AH HAWEENKA OO AY “Americans do not know that we KADALBANAYAAN ADEEGOODA. WAXAA U DIYAARA SHAQALO U TABO are gradually raising up to make a BARAN ANSHAXA IYO SOO DHAWEENTA. BALLANTEENU WAA ABU-HUREIRA HOTEL. history,” said Ahmed. “His victory is a good example for our children to MAAMULAHA:A.lahi Mohamed Aden TEL: 0723490208. have a confidence in their parents and believe that Somali fathers can Exero»The 01, REFUGEE 5555 BLA issue BLA 002, BLA pg . 7 REFUGEE OF THE MONTH MY OPINION, MY SAY zTHE WONDERFUL GAME IN SOMALIA MOHAMED ABDI GELLE AMIN AMEY, UNITED AFTER A DECADE SEPARATED IN A WEEK, A TALE OF AMIN AND HER MOTHER In the last two decades of unrest in Somalia, there is no doubt Somali people elementary school in the camps, a because she is not a registered refugee, fell prey to corrupt UN officials, mind- By Moulid Iftin reporter for a community radio station, and was not part of the process. less terrorists, greedy business men, sea and an active member of a youth group pirates, clan warlords and Transitional that campaigned aga DADAAB, Kenya — A refugee. Radio “I was tempted to almost cancel my Governments run by tribes’ men. They broadcaster. Writer. English teacher. inst FGM, HIV/A flight…there are no words to express all benefit and get richer every day from Community activist. All of these The IDS and drug abuse.dream that Amey my feelings,” Amey said. the misery and death of innocent civilian described 28-year-old Amin Amey before waited for two decades finally became Somalis? the UNHCR resettled him in Sweden last true when the UNHCR contacted him But his mother understood, and she September after a stay in the world’s encouraged him to leave. “God reunited Consider this fact. Every reliable report largest refugee camp in Dadaab, Kenya, us now, and we shall meet again,” she coming out of Somalia suggests it would for nearly two decades. told him. take 20,000 foreign troops to pacify and bring Somalia into the fold of nations. The Amey who lived in Ifo Refugee Camp was Amey promised not only to take his single main challenge to realize this vision separated from his parents when the civil mother to Sweden, but come back to his is lack of funding for these 20,000 troops. war erupted in Somali in 1991. Amey was war torn country and bring a change. only nine when his father died. We are led to believe, the millions of US dollars provided to United Nation agen- Though life in the camp was painful, Amey cies in the last 20 years, are unable to pay successfully completed his elementary the salary of regular army of the transi- education in 2000, but dropped out of Amin Amey and his wife in Ifo camp days before his flight to Canada. high school due to circumstances that the tional federal government for 24 months; family he lived with faced. about his departure to his new home, what time will it take in Somalia to restore Sweden, in mid-September. peace, held free and fair election, collect “I never thought of dropping out of taxes to pay their own soldiers and return school, but at times there are some However, Amey’s final days in the camp back the thousands of refugees staying feelings that you cant ignore.” Amey were also filled with mixture of happy in neighborhood countries and the rest said. “I could not bear to watch my aunt and sad emotions. His mother who was of the world. fetching firewood from the forest just to missing without a trace for 15 years put food on the table.” reunited with him only days before this It is unbelievable that United Nations departure. experts assigned to Somali cannot see this When he dropped out of school, Amey glaring problem in 20 years and address worked as an English teacher at an Amey said he couldn’t include his mother it promptly. Report after report shows the 17,500 Somali soldiers that have been trained for the transitional federal government are deserting every day for lack of salary payments and are jumping FROM THE DIASPORA: A CANADIAN EXPERIENCE ship to the insurgents. The transitional By, Sirajudin Abdullahi Siraji federal government which the interna- tional community and the Somali people I am dedicating this article to my fellow in Kenya used to say about white people: For example, when I go to a shop to were expecting to bring law and order, youth in Dadaab camps. I arrived safely white people think that the Africans are buy meat, It’s difficult to choose the was unable to do this role because of his- in Canada the country of my dreams. I stupid and don’t know anything. This is one I want from many of different types torical conflicts with its top leaders which always thought of dropping lines to all when I realized that “whites associate including pork, chicken, and beef. I are based for their selfish interest and not of friends and families, to share what intelligence with skin color,” a statement found it difficult to differentiate the halal the interest of ordinary Somalis despite of once seemed to me the impossible, that was popular among my colleagues from the haram because they all seemed this, the TFG will in no longer achieve its coming to Canada. in African. This is not to say that all white to me that they are labeled as hallal. vision of paving the way for stable govern- people have negative stereotypes about In avoidance to mistakenly eat haram ment in the coming years. When I initially came to Canada, my Africans, but it’s true for many of them. This meat, I only eat fish and vegetables. Even major plan were to study, however, leads many of us to internalize the negative though there are places you will find If the international community, African I found out that going to school stereotypes once repeated over and over real halaal food, it takes about an hour union, United Nation were serious in in a different country is tough and again. or two of driving from where I live. The restoring Somali government they would challenging. luckiest ones about us were resettled in have paid the salary of the current trained My other friends who came to Canada with places with many Muslim communities. military and police? If they recognize as Despite the challenges, I happened to they tell us that TFG cannot be trusted be the first student from Dadaab who “I found out that going to school in a Like many why not pay directly the regular uni- attends to York University in Toronto. campuses formed soldiers that are restoring peace Attending school in Canada is not as different country is challenging. Despite around and security? Why pass the buck to an simple as many in the refugee camps Canada, there unreliable entity! Why not add the salary think. For example, some of my classes the challenges, I happened to be the first is a building of the Somali military and police to that require attending a lecture in a hall called the of UNISOM and make sure they are paid that contains more than 700 students. student from Dadaab who attends York “Multi-faith on time? We see soldiers battling with ter- Building.” rorist insurgency under equipped, hungry and barefooted. We are told the United My first surprise was when I attended University in Toronto.” In These Nations Development Agency is unable to a biology lecture class, I was the only buildings, provide shoes and uniform even though black student in a class of hundreds of people from it collects millions of money each year in students. This is was not what I thought all religious denominations come me were placed at different universities in together and pray. Some times the the name of helping Somalia! of Canada when I was in the camps. Toronto. One goes to Ryerson University, Everything was new to me. I felt like a equation might be balanced in such a another to University of Toronto Is it not lack of security that is causing newborn baby thrown in the madness way that, I find myself praying next with Mississauga and the third at Humber all the myriad problems that the United of the world. different religions. Some times people College in Toronto. Weekends are the only from a different religion book the whole Nations is dealing with and claims to days we meet. building. When this happens, Muslims spend the bulk of their aid? How come The classes are very intense. Covering and other look for other places to they are not doing anything about the many topics and dealing with deadlines The first few days were very stressful perform their prayers. single most important and root cause of for tough assignment is typical in because I felt lonely and I couldn’t adjust all the misery in Somalia? Canada. Even though, it’s part of the with the environment, but recently western culture not to interfere with I am excited to be in Canada. I wish all in everything got back to normal. Dadaab a success in all your endeavors. As the old poker joke says “if you look others, Canadians are quick to help in around the table and you don’t know who desperate times. the sucker is, it is you” There is game being When it comes to food, the part where I live played and continues to be played here; in Canada is not the best place for Muslims. a game of bribery and deception. I am Another thing that really surprise Sincerely speaking, it’s hard to differentiate afraid the suckers in this game are the me was when a white woman asked between halaal and haram. (Halaal food is me “Where did you learn English?” It food that Islam permits. Haram is food not Somali populations that are dying need- reminded me of what my classmates permissible for Islamic consumption.) lessly every day. 8 »BLAThe REFUGEEBLA BLA issueExero 002, 01, p 5555g. 8

THE REFUGEE“nabad” TIME FOR MALEZI BORA! WOMEN & THEIR ROLE IN PEACE BUILDING The word peace in Somali means “Nabad” No substitute can provide which means what we are destined to by infants and can be the creator. Therefore, for us to enjoy a the nutritional equivalent treated easily” Women meaningful and development oriented helping women lives we need peace as a foundation. Peace of human breast milk. Hospital routines can be achieved through the collective and other health prac- effort and contribution by all regardless of By: Bashir Ibrahim Mohamed, tices can frequently race, sex, nationality and religion. IFO. influence mother’s decision of whether or In situations of civil wars many people People want to lead healthy lives, not to breastfeed. IFO are displaced either internally (IDPs) or flee raise well-nourished children and hospital has stimulated across international borders (refugees) provide them with opportunities for breastfeeding Mother- majority of them being women and chil- the future. In Dadaab camps medical to Mother Support dren, because by comparison women are activities have been ongoing for so Group-(MTMSG) dis- relatively on average more tender, merci- long and IFO is the most populated cussion to run in the ful, respectful and constructive. They solely among the three camps (Dagahaley, community centeras Certification after 5-day training on infants by: Liban Rashid shoulder the role of peace making which is Ifo and Hagadera) in which more influx they await to get mats, basin for moti- build confidence discover assumptions neglected by the men and the youth. The comes daily but is coping up to achieve vation. and patterns of behavior, ask questions youth are mainly ignorant and confused by these goals. It is obvious that breastfeeding pro- and relearn new ways of thinking in a the situation in which they find themselves GTZ is the health organization oper- motions with supportive programmes positive atmosphere. and the men mainly out of selfishness, ating in the camp and an increasing can a wake mother’s thinking for the greediness and personal interest. number of mothers are choosing to health of their children.The camp has These groups are the most effec- breastfeed for two years while others a very strong Infant and Young Child tive way to help mothers to continue Owing to the fact that women are the first are breastfeeding for a shorter time. Feeding-IYCF mother’s supporting breastfeeding after the first few weeks universal instructors of all children in the “Ideally a child should be fed breast- umbrella that was founded on 2006 of delivery because during this time world. They try to nurture the children well milk exclusively for first 6 (six) months by CARE-Community Development the mothers are often very vulnerable and impart positive values of love, trust, and complementary feeding follows Sector but Later on the programme and sensitive. They consist of 6-14 companionship, respect and general posi- with continuation of breastfeeding for was handed over to GTZ –nutritionist pregnant women, lactating mothers, tive outlook on life as they mould them in to 2 (two) years or beyond” Explains Mr. to run. These mothers were trained and grandmothers who meet to talk about responsible adults. But what happens then? Hassan basher. designed to encourage women and their infant feeding experiences and Is that all? The environment is harsh and communities to learn from each other. Mama fatumo paradox; innocent children are spoilt by the identify and solve Qase quotes.. ‘pregnant women in the communities and forced to get involved in their own prob- group gain knowledge in preparation criminal activities like abusing drugs, killing lems, and receive for breastfeeding and lactating moth- other innocent people, stealing etc. support for their ers learn new ways from the wisdom infant feeding of more experienced mother. Mzee Because many of the reproductive men decisions. Mama Abdi qoriyo; a father who said his wife and youth who are the traditional bread Abdio Abdi Ali, is a support group member, believes winners in the families die during the civil who is the moth- all successful women behind them is wars, many households are left without er’s support group a man. He adds, it is the fathers who them hence women assuming the double co.ordinator can play good role for the mothers to responsibilities of taking care of the chil- explains and breastfed infants. dren as well as earning a living for the says… These sup- family. port groups meet Most mothers perceive their milk will regularly to dis- not be enough for the baby plus giving Having felt the biggest burden of this cuss on feeding them breastmilk substitutes will hinder disaster, women pondered consciously and behavior change lactating mothers to give up. today they are the leaders in the struggle towards peace making. Women have now support women group discussing at IFO community centre It could be better if trained health- understood the importance of peace and Photo by: Liban Rashid workers can offer expectant mother a the negative implications that result from via women helping lactating moth- infant feeding class during antenatal the lack of it. Dr. Mohamed Mohamud, GTZ nutri- ers’ breastfeed their babies. A new visits and fostering the establishment tionist intern, who had an appointment mother if well supported has greater of breastfeeding support groups and Traditionally, women are known to be with a sick child of health post one in confidence and cancope better with refer mothers to them on discharge important opinion leaders who can effect IFO, adds… When diarrhea disease or the adjustments of motherhood. To be from the hospital or clinics. any positive change provided they have other respiratory infections do occur, a Mother Support Group, one should the determination and the zeal. Most they are less severe among breastfed be trained and qualified to be given a importantly, they are well placed to make certificate of participation. This non- extensive awareness on the need for posi- formal education and experiential tive co-existence of all entities, individuals, learning approach allows women to communities and societies because of their examine their values and attitudes, social network; they are related to different communities through intermarriage.

Today women have decided to ban their husbands, sons, brothers, cousins and in- laws from the battle fields. This is seen as a way of reducing the number of men and youths participating in the battle fields.

Filmaid Participatory Video Project (PVP) is a filmmaking program for refugee youth in Dadaab and one of the main objective of this newsletter is to help them improve on their writing and reporting skills and which will see an improved capacity in term of writing for film as well. www.filmaid.org, www.filmaid.blogspot.com