Basateen women & children requesting assistance [Archives:2002/29/Reportage]

Basateen is an area near Aden created for the Yemeni returnees from the Horn of Africa especially from Somalia. These displaced people who suffered from the Somalian Civil War are mainly widows and orphans. They have tried their best with the support of the Yemeni government to rebuild their lives.
After 12 years of dedication and hard work, the people still struggle to survive. They have been thrown out of their educational and vocational schools (the Kindergarten & Women Training Center) built by their own efforts and supported by European NGOs mainly RADA BARNERs, a Sweden NGO.
Recently, the center was looted and occupied by and armed thugs, who started restricting the area by force from public access.
The agencies that support the people of Basateen and their NGO The Charity Association for the Yemeni Returnees from Somalia informed officials concerned in the government and the local council about this development. But all their efforts were in vain. It seems that these people who occupy the center by force are supported by powerful people in the government!
Hence, we appeal to concerned government agencies to stop this unkind and unjust action as soon as possible. We must start solving the issues justly and help the powerless and poor displaced children and mothers of the Basateen area regain their rights.
If you are ready you can visit the area at any time and talk to the people in the area.

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