[ad_1]
3 July 2024 (Kampala) – Sudanese women refugees in Uganda have reported increasingly harsh conditions in refugee camps, including repeated sexual assaults and lack of basic necessities.
Fatima Mohammed (not her real name) tearfully recounted to Sudan Tribune the hardships of refugee life and the constant threat of attacks from different nationalities including Congo, South Sudan, Kenya, Uganda and Somalia.
Mohammed stressed that there is a shortage of sanitary pads in the camps, which women desperately need every month, and that pregnant women lack adequate health care.
She called on UNHCR and the Government of Uganda to strengthen security and protection, improve conditions in refugee camps and ensure that all refugees have access to basic services.
Disruptions to education and healthcare
Sudanese refugee Israa Hassan Hamza reported that harassment by students from other countries has caused many Sudanese families in the camps to take their children out of school.
Hamza also highlighted the lack of basic healthcare as a cause of miscarriages among refugees, describing a recent incident in which a refugee woman suffered a miscarriage after Ugandan police used force during a clash with Sudanese refugees.
The lack of gynecologists, obstetricians and Sudanese midwives, especially for FGM patients, exacerbates the problem. The hospital is also short of vitamins for pregnant women, and doctors ask refugees to buy them themselves, despite their financial constraints.
Another refugee, Hawa Mohammed Noor, pointed out that there are few job opportunities for both men and women in the camp, forcing them to look for other jobs to increase their income.
Community hub offers hope and support
Dr. Adib Abdul Rahman, Director of People for People, explained that the opening of the Amal Community Multipurpose Centre in the Kiriandongo refugee camp is aimed at addressing income and employment opportunities for refugees.
The centre provides training to 50 refugees, including 30 newly arrived Sudanese, in making liquid soap and vaseline. The goal is to increase their income and self-sufficiency.
Dr. Abdul Rahman also revealed plans to set up a treatment camp staffed with doctors of various specialties to provide medical services to Sudanese refugees in the camp.
In addition to financial support, the center also works on conflict resolution, mental health, cultural and social events, education, and the arts for peace. It is a partnership between the organization and the camp community.
[ad_2]
Source link
