Khadija is one of the tens of thousands Sahrawi refugees living in the refugee camps in southwestern Algeria, in Tindouf area. Established almost 50 years ago to provide shelter for refugees from Western Sahara, these camps are among the world's oldest refugee settlements. Here, life is a constant struggle, with temperatures regularly exceeding 50℃ during Summer. The extreme heat, limited rainfall and low humidity, make it difficult for people to get access to water and food.
The European Union has been funding the World Food Programme (WFP) response in the Sahrawis refugee camps since 1993. In the last 14 years, thanks to yearly allocations of around €5 million, we have supported Saharawi refugees to tackle the lack of food.
"The WFP logo brings back childhood memories of a rumbling tummy. We would eagerly count down the days until the next distribution, and any delay, even by a day, caused a wave of disappointment," recalls Khadija.
“I have no other choice, this is what it has come to”, says Khadija while tearing apart cardboard boxes.
She uses the paper scraps to feed her goats, her only mean to provide for her 3 children living in the unforgiving desert.
The weather can be very harsh in the camps, leaving thousands of people exposed to food insecurity.
Since 2023, the EU has allocated €10 million in humanitarian funding to the WFP for the monthly food distribution to over 133,000 individuals.
The EU-funded food rations ensure a daily dietary requirement of 2,100 kcal and consist of cereals, pulses, vegetable oil, sugar and gofio, a flour made from roasted and ground cereals.
Pregnant and lactating women also receive vouchers to purchase poultry and vegetables.
"Whenever a food distribution happens, it washes away my worries about hunger. It's a feeling of reassurance, knowing our bellies will be full," says Khadija.
Despite the harsh environment, camps are full of life.
Sahrawi refugees keep their cultural and social traditions alive, relying on their close-knit social networks.
"Family is my anchor," says Khadija.
Nothing is wasted from food distributions.
"Things like the leftover thread from WFP food bags find a new purpose. We use it to mend tents or craft bracelets, keeping our Sahrawi traditions alive. These bracelets adorn our wrists during special celebrations," says Khadija.
