Since displacement in 2007/2008 owed to post poll violence, education for victims has not been the same again. It has been a race for survival and education is simply not a priority. There are all kinds of dangers youthful IDPs become prone to due to a halt in education. A country, region or community can never progress without proper education and this is just a hurdle the internally displaced need to overcome to secure a bright future.
In a swaying torn tent at the Maai Mahiu IDP camp, 3 year old Ruth Nyaruai chants the letters of the alphabet; showing great prowess and potential that may remain just that. Mary Muthoni 16 and a third born of the family tells of the grave struggle for education and knowledge. ‘Studying at home is a big challenge since we only have one lamp. Our mother might need it more than us. When the baby cries at night, we have to use the lamp to ensure all is well. Before I know it, the clock strikes 11 pm. With strong angry winds and cold, I’m forced to go to sleep and cannot study’ Mary Muthoni laments.
In parliament, the debate on resettlement of IDPs continues. Mixed reactions and proposals have been forwarded. Gideon Mung’aro mp for Malindi filed the motion suggesting that IDPs should be resettled in their original farms. Minister for special programs Ms Murugi in reaction stated that the victims were too traumatized and could therefore not be forced back to a place that would remind them of previous chaos. This leaves a lot is to be desired regarding how the authorities have managed the crisis.
Organizations of good will have played a part in making this crisis bearable for victims. Family Media and Habitat for Humanity are spearheading the Building Hope Campaign aimed at building permanent homes to IDPs and restoring their dignity. This move will provide normalcy and the education hurdles for children in camps can be overcome. Join us today as we make a difference!
