The ongoing conflict in Syria has overshadowed many humanitarian crises, but one camp in particular, Djirba, remains largely forgotten. The camp, located in southern Lebanon, has been struggling to provide for the needs of its refugees for more than five years.
A brief history of the Djirba camp
The Djirba camp was created in 2013 to shelter Syrians fleeing the brutal regime of Bashar al-Assad. At its peak, the camp housed more than 10,000 refugees, but that number has steadily declined due to naturalization and repatriation efforts. Despite this decline, the camp still remains overcrowded, with nearly 5,000 residents currently living on the cramped site.
Lack of basic resources and equipment
Life at the Djirba camp is far from comfortable. The camp suffers from inadequate sanitation and water supplies, leaving many residents without access to these basic necessities. The refugee camp’s only water pumping station is in poor condition, forcing residents to draw water from nearby wells. Additionally, the camp lacks adequate waste management, leaving residents facing poor sanitation and hygiene.
Challenges faced by residents
Living conditions in the Djirba camp are dire and residents face numerous challenges on a daily basis. The camp is prone to flooding during the rainy season, making residents’ shelters vulnerable to damage. Residents also struggle to access medical care, as the camp’s only medical center lacks basic equipment and supplies. Mental health services are virtually non-existent, leaving residents to cope with the trauma of war without adequate support.
Support efforts at Djirba camp
Despite the challenges, a few organizations are working to support residents of Djirba camp. The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) provided some basic necessities, such as tents, blankets and water containers. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) also stepped in to provide medical care, educational services and psychological support. However, more must be done to meet the pressing needs of residents.
A call to action
The situation in the Djirba camp is dire and it is crucial that the international community pays attention to this forgotten crisis. Governments, NGOs and individuals can all play a role in supporting the residents of Djirba camp. Donations can be made to organizations providing aid to the camp, and advocacy efforts can help raise awareness of the dire conditions facing refugees. By working together, we can bring attention and resources to this forgotten crisis and provide a brighter future for the residents of Djirba camp.
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