Letter from the editors

Dear KANERE readers and supporters,

We are delighted to publish a new edition of Kakuma News Reflector or KANERE.

Like the previous issue, this edition focuses on Covid-19 coverage. As an independent and refugee-lead media organization, KANERE has been at the frontline in thwarting misinformation and making sure that refugees in Kakuma and Kalobeyei have access to the valid information that is needed for an effective public health response. Following a partial lockdown announcement in Kakuma and Dadaab, effective from April 29th, the first coronavirus infection in Kakuma camp was confirmed on May 25th.

For the past 4 weeks, KANERE members have been busy broadcasting information to camp residents using a vehicle-mounted loudspeaker. The intent is to educate the public and dispel the myths and misinformation surrounding the prevalent of COVID-19. This has been undertaken in cooperation with the UMOJA-Radio for Peace Project, which is funded by GIZ’s Civil Peace Service and through its partner organization Kenya Community Media Network (KCOMNET. The stories in this edition emphasize how refugee communities are responding to the pandemic. This includes coverage of efforts by a group of high school girls, who have engaged in activities like making masks and producing soap for affordable prices. They are doing this despite the difficulties that Covid-19 has created for everyone.

Other stories in this issue expose violations of the human rights of refugees, which have resulted in some committing suicide.

For future issues, we encourage both refugees and humanitarian workers to submit editorial contributions, photographs, and other items to be considered for possible publication.

We welcome all comments and feedback – as well as support from individuals and agencies – as we continue to provide the greater Kakuma and Kalobeyei with the critical information.

Enjoy and stay safe,
Qaabata Boru, Tolossa Asrat and G. Ibrahim