The life that refugees deserve

Editor, RE: “Burundian refugees at Mahama camp get new health facility” (The New Times, January 28). Refugees the world over often face challenging conditions and are, at times, subjected to inhumane conditions. The Government of Rwanda is ever attentive to the needs of refugees and Midimar’s pro-active response to the hardships faced by refugees is commendable. The camp in Eastern Province, which hosts more than 50,000 Burundian refugees, has received a new health facility thanks to the combined efforts of Midimar, UNFPA, the American Refugee Committee (ARC), UN High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) and other partners. Along with healthcare, education has been identified as a key requirement for the refugees and at least 112 classrooms have been constructed near the camp, which is a move in the right direction. Sometime back, The New Times carried a story on how refugees are being appropriately skilled so that they are able to become self-sufficient and not a burden on anyone else. Rwanda will continue to inspire others with their unique programs for all sections of society, including refugees who will thus be able to contribute to the growth and development of the Rwandan economy. Clarence Fernandes

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The life that refugees deserve