In the heart of Dadaab Refugee Camp, where harsh conditions and the aftermath of conflict converge, the resilience of women like Judia Nyatot, Manyal Biel, and Ramla paints a poignant picture of survival amidst adversity. These women, hailing from South Sudan and Somalia, represent a larger narrative of displacement that underscores the unique struggles faced by women in conflict zones. As they navigate the complexities of life in the camp, their voices illuminate the critical need for tailored health services and support systems that prioritize their health and well-being.
In an effort to understand these women’s perspectives on health and self-care, we asked Judia, Ramla, and Manyal four essential questions:
- What does health and well-being mean to you?
- What does self-care mean to you within the context of health and well-being?
- What do you want most for your health and well-being?
· How do you take care of yourself to stay healthy?
For Judia, life in Dadaab is marked by a relentless struggle against the harsh climate. She highlights the dire conditions of the camp, where water scarcity and food insecurity compound daily challenges. “The environment is quite a challenge,” she explains. “We face a lack of clean water and nutrition, which severely impacts our health.” Judia’s response reflects the broader struggle for basic necessities—a reality echoed by countless others.
Ramla, too, emphasizes the difficulty of achieving even the most fundamental aspects of health in such an environment. The extreme heat and limited water supply lead to dehydration and exacerbate existing health issues. “When it’s very hot and we don’t get enough water, and when there is limited access to water, there is no hygiene, when there is inadequate food there is no nutrition,” she shares. Her words highlight the critical link between health, food security, and access to water—three interwoven necessities that are difficult for her to achieve in Dadaab Refugee Camp.
Meanwhile, Manyal speaks to the challenges of accessing healthcare and how limited access to translators compounds these difficulties. The availability of translators is restricted to only two days a week, meaning that non-Swahili or non-English-speaking residents from South Sudan may find it impossible to seek care outside these times. “Does that then mean I’m not supposed to seek healthcare for the remaining five days?” she questions. Her perspective underscores the importance of accessible communication in health services and the fundamental role it plays in creating a safe, respectful, and supportive healthcare environment.
The voices of Judia, Ramla, and Manyal are powerful, representing not only their struggles but the broader realities faced by women in conflict settings. White Ribbon Alliance Kenya recognizes the importance of amplifying these voices. Their stories are not isolated incidents; they are part of a larger narrative that reflects the resilience of refugee women around the world. Listening to these women and understanding their needs—from access to basic resources to comprehensive health services—enables us to advocate for policies that address their realities directly.
The demands of these women—clean water, accessible health care, respectful treatment, and the essentials for survival—are not optional. They are rights, and they form the basis for effective health policies that can transform the lives of refugee communities. By centering women’s self-articulated needs, we create more impactful solutions grounded in their lived experiences.
These women’s collective voices demand action to build tailored health services that address their unique needs. These services must include not only physical healthcare but also mental health support, health education, and accurate, timely information—essential aspects often overlooked in traditional health programs.
These women’s collective voices demand action to build tailored health services that address their unique needs. These services must include not only physical healthcare but also mental health support, health education, and accurate, timely information—essential aspects often overlooked in traditional health programs.
By prioritizing the needs of Judia, Ramla, and Manyal, we take one step closer to a world where health services are accessible, equitable, and tailored to the self-identified needs of every woman and girl, regardless of where they live. Their strength and agency in the face of adversity remind us that when we support women’s health, we foster a more just, inclusive world for all.
