Somali Refugee Honoured

A Somali refugee has been honoured for her outstanding campaign against Female Genital Mutilation and forced marriages at the UNHCR Dadaab camp in North Eastern province.

Farhiyo Farah is expected to travel to Washington DC in March to attend the annual Women of Courage Award ceremony.

Local UNHCR official Amy Wordley said the 25-year-old woman would be recognized for her outstanding work in the camp where she campaigns against forced marriages, FGM, better treatment of rape victims and the rights of the girl child including right to education.

Wordley said Farah was happy to be the only African winner among this year’s roll of honors and the fact that she was a refugee made the recognition even more important to her.

The Award was established last year by US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice to recognize women around the world who have shown exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for women’s rights and advancement.

Source: Kenya Broadcasting Corporation – 8 February 2008