Rédaction Africa Links 24 with khaliil
Published on 2024-04-01 16:01:10
Somalia has long been considered one of the most dangerous places to live, primarily due to the threat posed by the al-Shabaab militia. Despite this, a group of bold young men from Meru County in Kenya, aged between 18 and 20, were enticed by the opportunity to earn up to Ksh100,000 (approximately $758) a month. They ventured into Dhobley, a town located just five kilometers from the Kenyan border, hoping to engage in profitable businesses such as selling plastic utensils and shoes.
Tragically, their aspirations were shattered when suspected Al-Shabaab militia attacked a business establishment where these young men were conducting their trade. In the brutal assault, six of them lost their lives. The Kenyan government swiftly intervened, arranging for the bodies to be transported back to Isiolo airport via a military helicopter.
Among the survivors was Lewis Mwirigi, who narrowly escaped death as he fled from the hail of bullets unleashed by the attackers. Recounting the harrowing experience, Mwirigi described how the armed assailants arrived in a Toyota Probox, opened fire on the unsuspecting traders, and set their shops ablaze before making a swift getaway. The aftermath of the attack left a gruesome scene, with casualties lying in pools of blood and others grievously wounded.
Following this traumatic event, the remaining traders, including Mwirigi and his companions, made the decision to abandon their businesses in Dhobley and return to their homeland. In a somber interview at Mweronkanga village in Akithi ward, Tigania West, these young men expressed their determination never to set foot in Somalia again. While the allure of lucrative business opportunities initially drew them to the region, the brutal reality of life amidst constant danger proved to be too great a risk.
Reflecting on their time in Somalia, the traders shared anecdotes of successful ventures and camaraderie with the local population. However, suspicions arose that certain individuals, possibly discontented with their prosperity, may have orchestrated the deadly attack. Despite the financial losses incurred and the shattered dreams of prosperity, the survivors emphasized that their lives were priceless and not worth risking in pursuit of monetary gains.
The tragic episode in Dhobley serves as a stark reminder of the perils faced by individuals seeking economic opportunities in conflict-ridden regions. While the promise of financial stability may be alluring, the preservation of life and safety should always take precedence. The resilience displayed by these young men in the face of adversity serves as a poignant testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring value of life above material wealth.
Source: The EastAfrican
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