World Refugee Day 2003 National Activity Plan: Ethiopia

Sudanese refugees in the Gambella and Gumz regions will kick off "World Refugee Day Week" with a series of activities, including a campaign on the environment, health and sanitation, as well as discussions on the possibility of peaceful conflict resolution.

Refugee youth will make statements on their commitment to peace, and present a play on their role in peace building and national development. An essay contest will be held for young refugees and locals.

Two young Ethiopians will stay with refugees in a camp for three days and experience refugee life, which will be documented by local TV station ETV. All the ethnic groups in the camps will participate in a cultural show and exhibition as well as in sales of traditional products. There will also be circus performances.

In refugee camps for Somali refugees, a campaign will be held to promote the active participation of refugee youth in the prevention and control of harmful traditional practices. Refugees and local youth groups will share their experiences and exchange ideas on the prevention of HIV/AIDS by discussing ways of reaching youth at the grassroots level.

The Organisation of African Unity is also planning activities to celebrate World Refugee Day throughout the region.