Zululanders bring joy to the children of war-torn Iraq

STILL haunted by the bombs that obliterated their homes a few months ago, the displaced children of Kurdistan in north-eastern Iraq had no reason to smile.

But when jungle gyms, colourful kites, finger puppets and skipping ropes from Zululand could be seen on the dusty and rocky stretch of Arbat refugee camp this festive season, there were shrieks of delight.

Through non-governmental organisation, Global Relief, Zululanders – Pastor Loffie Schoeman and Hannes Diemont returned to the conflict-torn region almost two weeks ago.

This followed previous trips to the Middle-Eastern country late last year with Mtunzini couple, Professor Jean Simonis and his wife Anita.

With about 1.8 million people in camps including refugees from Syria and internally displaced persons from Mosul and other Iraqi areas, the focus this time shifted to the thousands of innocent children.

‘A previous visit was so overwhelming especially when hearing people’s harrowing experiences,’ said Ps Schoeman.

‘They lost their families, businesses, possessions, documents and sadly even their hope. They cannot return to their homes.

‘Even if by a miracle, peace should arrive today, the enemy even planted bombs in the cities they captured.

‘We distributed blankets and food parcels, but I noticed the traumatised children showed little emotion when receiving gifts.’

Healing

Through generous donations from Zululand individuals, churches and NGOs countrywide, the team decided to construct jungle gym playgrounds and took material for making finger puppets and kites.

‘We taught them to skip ‘African’ style in rows! Hopefully it will help in their healing process.

‘We have built playgrounds in other war zones and have seen great joy in traumatised children,’ said Ps Schoeman.

The labour of love continued under the constant gaze of the children from Arbat Camp, overseen by the United Nations.

The team worked with the cooperation of STEP – a British-based NGO working with children in the camp.

‘Conditions have worsened considerably since our last visit two months ago,’ Professor Simonis told the Zululand Observer.

‘The two-man team faced many obstacles including deteriorating security conditions and the cold weather of around 10 degrees with rain almost daily. ‘However, they were able to teach the locals how to construct such a structure so that the work can continue.

‘The sustainability of the project is very important. For this, Loffie left essential tools and equipment behind as a lasting resource.’

@RonelleRamsamy