June 18, 2004, 17:00
South Africa host about 140 000 refugees, mostly from Africa. Refugees are people who had to flee their home country because of war, famine or political instability. But although they have found a safe haven in SA, they are often exposed to discrimination and harassment.
The UN and other bodies hope that this week's activities, culminating in World Refugee Day on Sunday, will help undo the xenophobia refugees are exposed to.
Freedom of movement was something Ndessomin Dosso used to long for. As a political activist in the Ivory Coast he had no choice but to flee his country 10 years ago. When he came to South Africa he had to start all over again.
"Everyday I pray that I can go back, but that does not prevent me from saying I'm in South Africa and that's what we're developing these days, " said Dosso.
Dosso is also helping develop a language training centre at Johannesburg's Park Station. Communication is a major barrier asylum seekers face, another problem is acceptance.
Melita Sunjic, of the UN said: "I think it's important for South Africa to meet refugees, to get to know them. And then they will understand that these are not people who are a danger to South Africa, but they were in danger and they found protection in SA."
Dosso believes he and other refugees can play an important role in society - they should just be given a chance.
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