I am deeply inspired today to work towards advocating for those that are marginalised because of their refugee status. Menes La Plume a Congolese refugee staying at Dzaleka Refugee Camp opened my eyes to the plight of refugees in the country another neglected debate . His moving tribute at the TEDxLilongwe gave him the platform to express to us that it is not their desire to be in this country but that due to the evil that is perpetrated in their war torn countries they have no choice but seek safety and shelter in Malawi. The description of the horrendous events taking place in some troubled African States makes me grateful that we are in a country that has never experienced genocide, ethnic conflict and all other despicable human rights violations. His poem descibed the horrors that made some of the TEDx viewers shed tears and others cringe at the gross human rights violations that should shame us all. The revictimization that some of these people face at DZaleka Camp is unfortunate. Yes, there are arguments which say these people are here temporary, but that does not mean that they should live in shelters that make their lives more miserable. I know that Government cannot afford to give them the best shelters when our own prisons are in a sorry state. This does not also mean that they should be put in palaces but the least that can be done is give these people a camp that is habitable, hospitable and dignified . We must also note that these people though they have fled from their countries, they once lived in houses that had proper roofing and basic amenities. It is sad and shocking that even though this is not one of the countrys priorities what is clear too is that the human rights voices are not loud enough to speak for these people. The tears I shed in that auditorium today reminded me of Hebrews 13 verse 4 when Jesus said Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. To all the unsung heroes and heroines that work with internally displaced persons and refugees..may you continue fighting and soldiering on for these people, for by so doing your work is healing and giving hope to the hopeless. #TEDx Lilongwe 2014.
Posted on: Sat, 15 Nov 2014 19:36:09 +0000
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