Refugees

The Gambia has a massive Refugee presence, but the Anglican Church, working hand-in-hand with the UN, responds to the issue, and invests heavily in the care and settlement of these victims of Civil War and famine.

Refugee Rehabilitation

The Diocese through its refugee programme has made a significant impact on the community in securing the well-being of uprooted people. The continued atmosphere of strife and instability in the sub-region as was evidenced by the conflicts in Liberia, Sierra Leone and now Guinea Bissau, which are a salient reminder of the caring role the Diocese can play in the comfort and rehabilitation of uprooted people. As the AMDM takes on increasing responsibilities in  refugee management there is need to address the issue of EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS so that the response of the Church to such matters can be swift and effective. There is also the need to strengthen the institutional frame work and build up capacities so that programmes can be better organised and monitored based on an efficient MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM. Coordination mechanisms, particularly with other partners involved in refugee work, will need to be instituted or strengthened at all levels, i.e.: central, field and parish levels.

In addition to the training in skills development accorded to refugees, other challenges include COUNSELLING SERVICES at strategic points within parish areas for traumatized people about the Christian way of dealing with difficult circumstances and information about types of job opportunities. URBAN REFUGEES who normally do not fall under the assistance of UNHCR  can be the special responsibility of the Church through collaborations with other agencies such as the World Council of Churches and All Africa Council of Churches.

The Mothers Union (MU) has expressed and demonstrated keen interest in addressing social problems of urban refugees. The MU should be encouraged to further this work. Activities primarily should include counselling services, skills training and recreation opportunities.