New horizons for education and nutrition in the Saharawi Camps

CISP, a long-standing leader in humanitarian assistance in the Saharawi refugee camps, has recently launched a new initiative. Funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), the project, titled Inclusive Education and Food Security for Vulnerable Populations in the Saharawi Refugee Camps in Southwest Algeria, seeks to enhance the quality of life for Saharawi refugees, with a particular emphasis on education and food security.

On October 21^st, the project's official launch took place at the UNHCR "Weather Haven" headquarters in the Saharawi Camps. The ceremony was attended by representatives of Saharawi institutions and local authorities, including the Saharawi Red Crescent, UN agencies such as WFP and UNICEF, project partner Africa '70, and Italian collaborators, including NEXUS Emilia-Romagna.

Alongside the local CISP team, led by Samir Zemouchi, attendees included CISP leadership from the Rome headquarters: Sandro De Luca, Director of CISP; Gianluca Falcitelli, Director for the Mediterranean and Middle East Geographical Area; and Giulia Olmi, Project Coordinator for Algeria and the Saharawi camps.

"This project represents a significant challenge and a remarkable opportunity to improve the living conditions of Saharawi refugees," said Giulia Olmi. "Investing in education and food security means addressing an emergency today to invest in the future of a population that deserves dignity yet has endured extreme living conditions for over 50 years in a largely forgotten humanitarian crisis."

The project, which will run until March 2025, will include a range of activities aimed at:

• Improving access to education: through school support programs, teacher training, and enhancing educational infrastructure.
• Ensuring food security: by increasing local food production, improving distribution systems, and diversifying diets.
• Strengthening community capacities: through training programs and the active involvement of civil society organizations.

CISP will work closely with Africa '70, the Saharawi Red Crescent, Nexus Emilia-Romagna, and local organizations and authorities to ensure the project's success.

CISP's long-term commitment to the Saharawi camps exemplifies how international cooperation can make a profound impact on the lives of vulnerable populations. Through this project, tens of thousands of Saharawi refugees will gain access to essential services, empowering them to build a better future for themselves and their families.

Stay tuned for future updates here and on our social media platforms!

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