The Cabildo of Fuerteventura has received today eight Saharawi children who spend the summer months on the island thanks to the program ‘Holidays in Peace’. The initiative allows children to enjoy a vacation away from the difficult conditions of the refugee camps in Tindouf (Algeria), where the heat can reach over 50 degrees.
The welcoming ceremony took place in the Plenary Hall of the Cabildo, where they were welcomed by the president of the Cabildo, Lola Garcia, the Minister of Social Action, Victor Alonso, as well as other councilors of government and opposition group. Representing the Saharawi community in Fuerteventura were present its president, Ahmed Hasenna, the delegate of the Polisario Front in Fuerteventura, Mohamed Ali Larbi, with the presence of Juan Valentin Cabrera of the association Sahara Fuerte.
Lola Garcia thanked the Saharawi community “for continuing to count on us in an initiative that not only shows solidarity with these children, but also makes visible the rights of children and the struggle of the Saharawi people for so many years.
Both Lola Garcia and Victor Alonso also put in value “this symbolic act which is very important for us”, and thanked the Saharawi community, foster families and organizations that make possible an initiative that “makes visible the rights of children, as well as the struggle of the Saharawi people,” added Garcia.
During their stay, the children participate in a variety of cultural and recreational activities, including visits to places of interest on the island and social gatherings. These activities not only seek to provide them with an enriching experience, but also to foster their personal development and emotional well-being.
The program ‘Holidays in Peace’ has more than two decades in Fuerteventura and the Canary Islands, promoted by the Canarian Association of Friendship with the Saharawi people and the various Saharawi delegations. Every year it allows hundreds of children to enjoy a different summer.