Dates: 22-24 July 2013
Place: WFP Conference Room, Dadaab, Kenya
The effects of environmental degradation, particularly those related to fuel wood and construction materials gathering in Dadaab, have not only had an irreversible impact on natural resource assets but also on socio-economic costs to the refugee and host communities, as does the reduced availability of wood fuel, housing materials, medicines from the forests. Competition for the scarce natural resources has resulted in conflicts and resentment. Breakdown of traditional and sustainable local systems of natural resource management - a change that may not always be easy to reverse - is also eminent. Unless due attention is given to the breadth and scale of possible environmental impacts, local and refugee populations will continue suffering. In this regard, strengthening the capacity of local communities and refugees to protect the environment and vegetation is imperative.
Major outputs of the training workshop
- Refugees and host community members given a forum for sharing views, ideas, experiences and concerns about their living environment;
- Awareness raised among community members and a sense of responsibility instilled on key environmental issues and challenges in Dadaab;
- Community members in the Dadaab refugee camp and host community familiarized with the broader issue of the link between environmental protection and sustainable human development in which conflict is a key factor;
- Community in Dadaab helped to embrace relevant values and genuine concern for the environment and the motivation to actively participate in its protection and improvement;
- Strategies developed and skills to be used by the community to practically care and maintain their environment imparted.
(Office: UNCRD Africa Office)