Children of the Camp: The Lives of Somali Youth Raised in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya

Somalis who grew up in Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya have a unique perspective on their living environment and their country of origin due to chronic violence. This book explores their experiences and how growing up in exile shapes their views of the past, present, and future.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 246 pages
\n Publication date: 02 July 2021
\n Publisher: Berghahn Books
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Somalia has been plagued by chronic violence for over two decades, leading to the displacement of nearly two million people. Many of these individuals have sought refuge in neighboring countries, where they have established camps, including Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya. In this captivating book, based on extensive fieldwork, the authors delve into the lives of young Somalis who have grown up in Kakuma. Through meticulous exploration, they examine how these individuals perceive their surroundings and how their experiences in exile shape their perspectives on the past, their country of origin, and the future, encompassing the potential for change and transformation.

The authors begin by providing a historical backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Somalia, which has resulted in widespread displacement and hardship. They explain how the country's political instability, economic challenges, and the presence of extremist groups have contributed to the ongoing crisis. The authors then focus on the experiences of the young Somalis who have grown up in Kakuma. They describe the challenges they face daily, including limited access to basic resources, poor healthcare, and the constant fear of violence.

Despite these hardships, the young people in Kakuma demonstrate resilience and determination. They have formed communities and networks to support each other, and they have pursued education and vocational training to improve their prospects for the future. The authors explore the impact of growing up in exile on these young individuals' identities and sense of belonging. They note how the experience of displacement has shaped their perspectives on their country of origin and their cultural heritage. Some individuals have become disillusioned with the political situation in Somalia and have lost faith in the possibility of a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

However, others have remained hopeful and continue to hold onto the belief thatSomalia can overcome its challenges and rebuild. They see the refugee camp as a temporary place of refuge, but they also view it as an opportunity to learn and grow. The authors argue that the experiences of young Somalis in Kakuma provide valuable insights into the broader refugee crisis and the challenges faced by displaced communities worldwide. They suggest that policymakers and humanitarian organizations should prioritize the education and empowerment of young refugees to help them build sustainable futures and contribute to their host communities.

In conclusion, this book offers a powerful and nuanced exploration of the lives of young Somalis who have grown up in Kakuma refugee camp. Through their stories, the authors shed light on the ongoing crisis in Somalia and the challenges faced by displaced communities worldwide. They provide valuable insights into the experiences of young refugees and advocate for policies that prioritize their education and empowerment. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the refugee crisis and the potential for positive change in the lives of those affected.

\n Weight: 356g\n
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781800731790\n \n