The stories I tell no one.
Surviving Adversity: A Mother's Courage in an IDP Camp
Abi Adhi, Tigray Ethiopia,
Mrs. Hana Alemu, a mother in her late thirties, lives with her two daughters and son in one of the IDP camps in Abiy Addi, Ethiopia. Since relocating to the camp three years ago, the family faced numerous challenges in adjusting to their new life. But despite the adversity, Mrs. Hana’s strength, and determination to care for her children have helped them persevere.
“Relocating to this IDP camp after being displaced from our village brought immense challenges for me and my children," said Mrs. Hana. “Adjusting to our new surroundings was tough, and there were days when we struggled to find enough food to eat.”
Providing for her children is a top priority for Mrs. Hana. However, when things became difficult, she entrusted the care of her son to her mother. While caring for her other children, Mrs. Hana faced an unthinkable situation. Recalling the horrific incident, Mrs. Hana said, “About ten months ago, I heard that a food distribution was taking place in the camp. I was determined to get assistance for my family. However, on my way to collect the food, three armed men blocked my path and subjected me to sexual assault. They mocked and attacked me. I was terrified for my life and for the safety of my children.”
Though the incident left Mrs. Hana hopeless, she prayed for an escape. Fortunately, one of the armed men took pity and stopped the assault. Mrs. Hana used this opportunity to break free. “I was deeply shaken and traumatized, but I somehow gathered my strength to get away. I proceeded to collect the much-needed food assistance for my family”, she recalls.
Escaping was just the first challenge for Mrs. Hana; seeking medical assistance was another. She struggles to open up about her experience, fearing the stigma that might surround her within the community. However, for the sake of her children, she remained resilient and sought medical care.
“I received the necessary treatment and support from the local health centre but the memory remains in my mind.
Through the Humanitarian Cash Transfer (HCT) programme funded by FCDO, Mrs. Hana is now receiving assistance to support her family. She uses the monetary support to purchase essentials including food and water for her family and rebuild her life.
UNICEF, with generous funding from FCDO, is reaching out to displaced families and providing the necessary assistance through Humanitarian Cash Transfers to support them in their daily life and help them rebuild their lives.
*The name of the mother has been changed for protection.
