The east African community in Dublin is inviting members of the public to a special fundraising event aimed at assisting people affected by the famine in the Horn of Africa. All proceeds from the event on Friday 2 September will go to Unicef to help children in famine-hit Somalia, Kenya and Ethiopia.
Organiser Ifrah Ahmed, a Somali refugee who has been living in Ireland for four years, has also campaigned on a variety of issues, especially women’s health, and is a leading figure in the campaign against FGM.
“It is in our power to stop famine. In this day and age no one should go hungry,” she told Metro Éireann. “The work being done by Unicef and other aid agencies is paramount to the survival of these people.
“Events likes ours provide vital funds to allow these agencies to operate and provide assistance where it is desperately needed.”
People of all ages and backgrounds, including ambassadors and top politicians, are expected at the event at 9 Lower Abbey Street in Dublin, which is set to feature traditional Somali music, fashion and food. Tickets will be available at the door for €10.
An auction will help to raise further funds, and participants will be bidding for some very special items, including a signed Ireland soccer jersey and portraits of the young African singer Brihanna, as well as items signed by supporters from the worlds of fashion and human rights, including presidential candidate and long time human rights champion Michael D. Higgins.
Guest speakers from Unicef and the UNHCR will also give an insight into the current situation in the Horn of Africa and on the work the two agencies are doing on the frontline.
“The stories and the images of the famine refugees are a heartbreaking reminder of why it is so important that Ireland continues to give refuge to those in need of international protection and why we should be proud to do so,” said Sharon Waters, communications officer with the Irish Refugee Council, which is backing the event.
