The Safe House: An Enclave of Peace and Hope

Muna can finally relax for the first time since she fled Somalia in the middle of July 2016. “It was a challenge,” the 16-year-old says with a grin, as she describes her ordeal when she was sexual abused and forcely married off at the age of 14 years.  “I was brought up by my paternal aunt after my father died when I was 2 years old. I was born with a heart condition. I underwent heart surgery with the sponsorship of my aunt in United Kingdom. I was able to live there for 9 years until when my aunt lied to me about going for a holiday in Africa. I landed in Kenya three years ago and later was transported to Somalia to meet my family members. I have never seen my aunt again. She dumped at the hands of my old relatives in Somalia. I was left in Somali not knowing what was in store for me.  Immediately, the elders organized a female genital mutilation ceremony claiming it a culture rite of passage that I had to undergo. I was shocked and very devastated. Later, I was married off to an old man who used to abuse me every day and later left me to die.  After a few months, I realized I was pregnant, with no one to take care of me. I was lost, I was chased away, forced to live in a prison like institution because I feared being abused again and probably being killed by my abusers.”

Muna wassupported by well-wishers to flee Somalia to find refuge in Kenya. She gave birth to a baby girl in August 2016. The worst news that she received immediately she gave birth is that the baby had a heart condition too that needed urgent medical care. It has been difficult for Muna to take care of her child. She lived with good samaritans in Eastleigh who provided her with basic meals every day.  She had to take her child to different hospitals for medical assessment and treatment. Unfortunately, she could not take care of herself and her child anymore.  Muna was referred to the Safe House for proper care, protection, and shelter.   

With support from the Case Workers and a therapist at the Safe House, Muna has been able to build her strength and hope towards her future. In the Safe House, she is able to take care of her child well.  The baby is receiving proper medical care hoping that her health will flourish in the next few months.  With a safe place to stay and support, she is able to talk positively about her life and think about her future.

Today, Muna is a beautiful happy mother with her child. She participates actively in the shelter activities and counseling sessions. The road ahead for Muna is a challenging one, but she remains highly motivated and confident she will succeed at her goal of building a healthy and fulfilling life with her daughter.

“I am starting to think of tomorrow more, because when you are homeless all that you think about is the immediate need. Now that am in a safe place, I feel hopeful that my baby will get all the help she needs. I am happy.” Says Muna.