“Supporting the Afar community socially.” That’s the motto that guides the Communauté Afar de Belgique. It is a mission deeply rooted in helping those from Ethiopia Djibouti and Eritrea.
The Fédération Internationale de la Diaspora Afar also known as FIDA created in 2015. It unites international associations from Europe and Canada. All are dedicated to the Afar community. FIDA focuses on development cooperation. It also emphasizes socio-educational cultural activities. The organization offers immigration support in Belgium.
FIDA’s work in Belgium touches about one hundred lives. They provide support to twenty very vulnerable families. This includes socio-administrative legal and medical aid. About forty children receive para-scholastic support. Cultural activities are offered. The promotion of Afar culture is central to their mission at the Communauté Afar de Belgique.
Imagine arriving in a new country. Everything is unfamiliar. The language the laws the customs all present challenges. That’s where the Communauté Afar de Belgique steps in. They assist with administrative tasks legal issues and healthcare access. They guide families through the complexities of settling in.
Hager Hamed a member of FIDA’s general assembly shares her experience. She has lived in Belgium for five years. Since arriving FIDA has consistently supported her. This support includes administrative legal and social matters. They also assist her children with school and finding suitable housing. The Communauté Afar de Belgique truly makes a difference.
The Afar people themselves have a rich history. They originate from the Horn of Africa. There are approximately 5.8 million Afars. Most live in Ethiopia Eritrea and Djibouti. The Afar language is part of the Cushitic languages. Most Afars are Sunni Muslims.
Interestingly some theories trace the Afar presence back thousands of years. The earliest known records however date back to the 13th century. They are also known as Adal in Ethiopia and Dankali in Arabic.
Historically Afars were involved in trade. They harvested salt from Lake Assal in Djibouti. The salt was transported to Ethiopia for sale. This demonstrates their resourcefulness and economic activity.
FIDA Federation Internationale de la Diaspora Afar is located here in Brussels. It actively engages in development cooperation. It also provides humanitarian aid. They combat poverty in the Horn of Africa. They conduct socio-educational and cultural activities in Belgium. FIDA also raises awareness during Brussels’ International Solidarity Fortnight. The Communauté Afar de Belgique has a valuable place here.
The Communauté Afar de Belgique exemplifies community support. It offers a helping hand to those in need. It also celebrates and preserves Afar culture. Its commitment makes Brussels a welcoming home for the Afar diaspora. The people involved give their free time to ensure the Afar community lives on.