In the Horn of East Africa, a massive drought is affecting the lives of approximately 12.5 million people. It has been described as the worst in 60 years and thousands are flocking to Dadaab—a sprawling complex comprising five refugee camps in northeastern Kenya.
The camp opened in 1991 and was meant to hold 90,000 people. Today, Dadaab holds close to 430,000 people who have fled conflict, drought and famine in Somalia.
(Photo: AFP/Getty Images)
The Long Line to Enter Dadaab
Refugees arriving in Dadaab undergo basic health and vulnerability screenings and are provided with essential supplies. To ease overcrowding, many refugees are being relocated to Kambioos or Ifo Extension.
(Photo: Fairfax Media via Getty)
Waiting for Food and Shelter
A young boy and his family have made it to Dadaab. Here he waits for family members to finish the registration process.
(Photo: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters)
Aid Agencies
The International Rescue Committee provides life-saving aid, as do several other organizations, including Save the Children, UNHCR and CARE.
(Photo: Matija Kovac/International Rescue Committee)
Clinging to Life
Hungry and exhausted, refugees have walked for days or weeks through the desert to find help. In Dadaab, three out of five children suffer from malnutrition. The International Rescue Committee has a stabilization center there as part of their IRC-run hospital. Upon arrival, children are rushed here for food and medical care.
Seven-month-old Minhaj Gedi Farahi arrived at the International Rescue Committee’s stabilization center weighing only six and a half pounds and on the brink of death. “After a week’s care he has gained 400 grams (almost a pound), which is a remarkable improvement,” said the IRC’s Dr. John Kigora. “Against all odds, he will survive.”
(Photo: Peter Biro/International Rescue Committee)
Nursing Malnourished Children Back to Life
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) works in two of the Dadaab camps, providing new arrivals with medical screening and assistance, aiding survivors of sexual assault, and nursing malnourished children back to life and health.
(Photo: Peter Biro/International Rescue Committee)
Life-Saving Vaccinations
Outbreaks of disease are a significant risk in Dadaab. In the photo, Antonia Kamore, IRC community health program officer, vaccinates a young refugee against measles.
(Photo: Peter Biro/International Rescue Committee)
Finding Home Amid the Chaos
People build makeshift homes in the outskirts of Dagahaley settlement.
(Photo: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters)
A Moment for Prayer
Thousands of Somali refugees in Dadaab pray during Eid al-Fitr celebrations at the end of Ramadan.
