LIVING CONDITIONS OF THE SOMALI REFUGEES: THE CASE OF KEBRIBEYAH REFUGEE CAMP, KEBRIBEYAH TOWN, FAFEN ZONE, SOMALI NATIONAL REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

In many situations, people who left their homes to escape from persecution, armed conflict or violence face restrictive policies of the countries in which they found as refugee and become critically dependent on humanitarian assistance. The purpose of this study aims to explore the living conditions and problems of refugees in the Kebribeyah refugee camp. To conduct the study quantitative and qualitative methods were employed. Data was collected from refugees, refugee leaders and ARRA authorities in the camp. In the selection of the sample systematic cluster sampling, snow ball technique and purposive sampling were used. The main instruments for data collection were interview schedule, key informant interview and focus group discussion. The quantitative data was analysed using frequencies and percentages. The qualitative data was analysed through careful of the problems which determine refugees’ well being. However, this study has found that lack of working area, lack of budget, lack of training, sense of dependency, lack of job opportunities, poor hygiene, less nutrition, close proximity of houses, and lack of proper infrastructures and materials were the major problems. Lastly, recommendations were forwarded based on the major findings so as to minimise problems. Providing of adequate training on economic activities, giving of qualified and continuous education, existence of health related training, emergence of health centres, establishment of the modern justice system, and development of appropriate camp infrastructures were required from the responsible governments and NGOs to keep refugees well being.