- Globally, over 110 million people are forcibly displaced. Kenya hosts more than 650,000.
- For millions of these families forced to flee, the challenge of living in darkness is a daily reality.
Image: JACK OWUOR
The United Nations refugee agency has launched a campaign in the country seeking to raise $100,000 (Sh14.98 million) to light up homes of families in Dadaab and Kakuma refugee camps.
“Central to the funds raised will be to provide solar lamps and other critically needed household items to alleviate the suffering and plight of refugee families,” the UNHCR said in a statement.
The funds will also be stretched to reach other vulnerable families in Africa.
Dubbed the UNHCR Diwali Campaign, the fundraiser is said to be in the spirit of the Diwali festival which is celebrated by Kenya’s vibrant community of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains every November 12.
The campaign seeks to bring together Kenya’s private sector, including companies, foundations, individuals, celebrities, influencers and media personalities, to raise funds to provide solar lamps for families living in darkness.
UNHCR’s high profile supporter Pinky Ghelani said the plight of displaced families is a universal concern that needs joint support to address the challenges they face each day.
“For this reason, I'm incredibly motivated to unite my community in Kenya to help share our light this Diwali and to help light up the hearts and homes of thousands of refugee families,” Ghelani said.
Globally, more than 110 million people are forcibly displaced. Kenya hosts more than 650,000 displaced people.
For millions of these families forced to flee, the challenge of living in darkness is a daily reality, UNHCR added.
“When the sun sets in refugee camps, often located in remote areas outside national electricity grids, the darkness challenges everyday tasks such as homework, cooking, or business.”
The agency reiterated that there is a growing concern of the high numbers of people forced to flee their homes because of conflict and the inability to keep up with resources.
"This Diwali campaign has been a very welcomed initiative by the Asian community in Kenya. It has also united intercultural and interfaith for the common goal of supporting refugee families,” UNHCR Chief of Private Sector Partnerships, Africa, Nancy Aburi said.