Refugee Rebuilds Life

Misgna, an Eritrean refugee, has started a new business with host community members in Dabat, Ethiopia, after completing vocational training. He now earns an income and has hope for a better future for his family.

Global Newsflix9 h ago 2 min read

Refugee Rebuilds Life — Photo: www.nrc.no

Misgna was 11 when he left Eritrea due to political unrest and settled in Mai Aini Refugee Camp in northern Ethiopia. He spent years rebuilding his life there.

However, conflict broke out in northern Ethiopia in 2022, and Misgna had to flee again, this time on foot for seven days to reach Alem Wach Refugee Site in the Dabat area.

In 2025, the Norwegian Refugee Council launched a youth education and training programme at Alem Wach, which included vocational training and livelihoods support. Misgna enrolled in the programme and completed a course in food preparation at Dabat Technical and Vocational Education and Training College.

After completing his training, Misgna started a business with ten other refugees and host community members. They opened a small cafe and restaurant in Dabat, with start-up capital from the Norwegian Refugee Council and UNICEF.

Misgna now works alongside host community members, serving customers and running the business together. He has built close relationships with people in the host community and speaks Amharic fluently.

The business has given Misgna hope for a better future for his family. He says the training and start-up support gave him the chance to work with others, earn an income, and build something of his own.

Misgna's story is an example of how refugees can rebuild their lives with the right support and opportunities. He is now 28, married, and a father of two, and is working towards a more stable future.

Key facts

Misgna left Eritrea at 11 due to political unrest
He fled to Mai Aini Refugee Camp in northern Ethiopia
He completed vocational training in food preparation at Dabat Technical and Vocational Education and Training College
He started a business with host community members in Dabat

Three perspectives

Neutral

The situation for refugees in Ethiopia remains challenging, with many relying on humanitarian assistance. However, programmes like the Norwegian Refugee Council's youth education and training programme are providing opportunities for refugees to rebuild their lives.

Positive

Misgna's story shows that with the right support and opportunities, refugees can rebuild their lives and create a better future for themselves and their families. The business he started with host community members is an example of successful integration and cooperation.

Negative

The conflict in northern Ethiopia has had a devastating impact on refugees like Misgna, who have had to flee their homes and rebuild their lives multiple times. More needs to be done to support refugees and provide them with stable and secure futures.