Mirrors of Resurgence.

MIRRORS OF RESURGENCE

By: Abigail Mueni

- PR and Communication

Ali Muktar a refugee and an auxiliary nurse actively involved in assisting NCD patients, particularly those with diabetes, in adhering to their care plans.

To commemorate World Refugee Day, we shift our focus to the Dadaab refugee camp in Kenya, where amidst the immense challenges faced by the displaced population, stories of resilience, hope, and empowerment emerge. In this compelling feature, we highlight the experiences of individuals who not only managed to overcome daunting health

obstacles but are also making a positive impact within their community.

In 1996, Ali Muhammed Muktar, was only 27 years old when together with his family, arrived in Dadaab, according to him Drought, Famine, and conflicts are what led to them seeking refuge in the Camp, in dire need of shelter, food assistance, and medical attention and was at the same time diagnosed with diabetes Although frail, his path to healing had just begun. His life before diagnosis was filled with hopelessness, Lack of quality health care, Food insecurity, and poor nutrition posed a risk of NCDs to him, his family, and the rest of the refugee population. Thanks to the intervention and support of the Kenya Red Cross Dadaab Branch, Ali's life took a remarkable turn. Access to essential diabetes treatment at the KRCS’ healthcare facility at IFO1 Camp in Dadaab. The home-based insulin management strips and glucometer, screening, and counseling significantly improved his health, leading to a complete transformation. In 2022, the WDF’s NCD in emergencies project was rolled out in the refugee camp targeting to ensure continuity of care for populations on the move.

A Journey to Health and Empowerment

Ali is now an auxiliary nurse actively involved in assisting NCD patients, particularly those with diabetes, in adhering to their care plans. Recognizing his dedication, the healthcare facility and project supporting it offered him and other CHVs specialized training in Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD). The training covered topics such as identifying risk factors, promoting early detection, emphasizing lifestyle modification, and outlining best practices for patient care and management. This comprehensive training equipped Ali and other Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide effective support, preventive measures, and overall management of NCDs within their community.”

He together with other healthcare workers can identify NCDs during community outreaches, He understands common risk factors associated with NCDs, including unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and environmental factors, are identified. Ali not only maintains good health by avoiding the risk factors but also selflessly assists his fellow community members and family by providing a referral, psychosocial counseling, and NCD screening services through home visits and integrated community outreaches with the project team. Now serving as an auxiliary nurse, Ali utilizes his newfound skills o support those facing health challenges similar to his own. His infectious optimism and unwavering commitment have made him a source of inspiration within the camp.

Continuum of Care for NCD patients in Dadaab Camp.

Facing diabetes, hypertension, and the aftermath of a stroke, 80-year-old widower Bilo Hassan Barkadla and 70-year-old Muslima Abdulahi find themselves homebound. Yet, they exude strength and resilience, wearing bright smiles as a testament to their unwavering spirit. Mohammed Ali Bashir takes us through Bilo and Muslima’s progress since they

were diagnosed till date “They have shown remarkable fortitude in managing their conditions. Home care and diligent follow-up have played a pivotal role in their journey toward improved health.” The dedicated efforts of community health volunteers like Ali, who ensure proper medication adherence, have been instrumental in their progress. Previously, Bilo and Muslima faced additional challenges, relying on significant assistance to travel from their homes to the clinic for treatment. Fortunately, with the recent reconstruction of the IFO2 Hospital and the addition of a cold storage room, the need for patients to relocate to receive insulin injections has been alleviated. This positive change provides convenience and accessibility for individuals with diabetes.

“With the influx, There is a need for more CHVS there are limited healthcare facilities and resources available, considering the fact that 1 block contains 200hh and we accept more refugees in the population compared to the people living with NCDs makes it difficult to provide comprehensive NCD care,” says Mohammed Ali Bashir, a community health worker at the KRCS IFO1 camp facility. One of the problems faced by NCD patients is Transportation and distance patients like Bilo and Muslima who are home-bound face challenges traveling from their homes to the clinic for treatment,” the home-based care is of great importance as it helps us keep track of the patient’s health ” he adds. Most of the refugees in the camps have families and relatives still in Somalia once word is sent they all relocate in large numbers to Dadaab for refuge.

“To ensure the long-term effectiveness and enduring impact of these initiatives, it is of utmost importance to provide robust support for counseling services, screening programs, and continuous training of Community health volunteers (CHVs).” Says Mohammed Ali Bashir. By supplying essential resources such as blood test strips and Glucometers, we can lay a solid foundation for a brighter future and enhanced healthcare within the Refugee Camp. “There is need pressing need for comprehensive care, counseling services, screening, and follow-up programs,” Ali emphasizes. Essential Trained Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) play a vital role in identifying individuals like Ali, Bilo, and Muslima and providing them with the necessary support. Through home visits and regular follow-ups, CHVs ensure that patients receive the ongoing care they require, extending a lifeline of hope to those facing chronic illnesses. Mohamed Ali Bashir recognizes that raising awareness about unhealthy habits and the significance of screening and counseling is crucial not only for patients but for the entire community. He believes that such awareness will greatly contribute to improving health outcomes. For individuals like Billow, who are unable to take medication independently, the support of caregivers, such as his brother and sister, becomes essential. Therefore, it is important for them to have a clear understanding of the medications to be administered, the proper timing, and the importance of regular screening. These compelling stories shed light on the importance of empowering individuals and equipping them with the necessary tools to improve their well-being. Ali's journey toward becoming an auxiliary nurse showcases the transformative power of education and skills training, while Muslima and Bilo's unwavering spirit reminds us to recognize the strength within each individual, regardless of their circumstances.

On World Refugee Day, we celebrate the resilience of individuals like Ali Muhammed Muktar Bilo Hassan Barkadla, and Muslima Abdulahi who have confronted significant health challenges with unwavering determination. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the potential for hope, empowerment, and community support in the face of adversity. As we reflect on their inspiring journeys, let us unite in advocating for increased resources and sustainable programs that will uplift the health and well-being of refugees worldwide. Together, we can make a difference and build a more inclusive and compassionate world for all.