In early 2011, we began providing healing services for refugees in Dadaab.

The levels of trauma and torture reported among the refugees in the camps are severe.  Many refugees experienced targeted violence as well as random atrocities of war.  Particularly disturbing are the high levels of rape and sexual violence reported by refugees throughout their experience, including as acts of war in their home communities.

Using locally-hired and trained refugees, we are providing counseling groups to help survivors who are struggling with the devastating effects of torture. Expatriate psychotherapists provide individual counseling to the men, women and children who are most affected.

In addition to providing healing services, we are:

• Training the staff of international nongovernmental organizations and other agencies to provide appropriate care for survivors
• Conducting home visits to support an estimated 1,500 family members
• Reaching out to refugees with information about the effects of torture, how they can care for themselves and services that are available.

In the last year, the worst drought in East Africa in 60 years and the ongoing conflict in Somalia is causing thousands of Somalis to seek refugee in Dadaab. The new arrivals endure famine and an arduous journey. To provide for them, we will begin providing psychological first aid and initial mental health screenings for referrals and coordination with other humanitarian aid groups.

The project is funded by a grant from the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration