Failed rains, prolong drought pushes Somali communities to the brink

Among the group of Ethiopian refugees is Hawo Rayab, 35. "The drought has been going on for three years in Ethiopia. We were told that there were pastures on the other side of the border. But when we got here, we didn't find anything," said Hawo. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Raaho's talk of play and home reminded Li of her small, furry, cuddly backpack that resembles a teddy bear's head, which used to be her children's toy when they were younger.

Li found the backpack from her luggage and gave it to Raaho. The girl was very happy, immediately putting the straps around her shoulders and started wearing it on her chest.

"May it give her some warmth and comfort when she sleeps in the open tonight," Li muttered as she waved Raaho, Hawa and the rest goodbye.

"May help come soon so that Raaho can go back and play with her friends in the comfort and safety of her home again," she prayed.

Kun Li works as a communication specialist at the UNICEF Somalia Support Center. She is Chinese by birth, and American, African and world citizen by heart.

Contact Kun Li at kli@unicef.org