National Reconciliation Day 2023: Embracing Unity by Recognizing the Contribution of Migrants, Refugees, and Asylees
As South Africa prepares to mark National Reconciliation Day on 16 December 2023, SIHMA recognizes the vital role of migrants, refugees, and asylees in shaping the narrative of inclusive nation-building. Under the theme "Strengthening unity and social cohesion in a healing nation," this year's celebration provides an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of all who live in South Africa, including those who have crossed borders in search of peace and prosperity. National Reconciliation Day stands as a testament to the...
Migration and Mental Health
Photo by Total_Shape on Pixabay Mental health is important for every individual at every stage of life, from childhood to adulthood, however, many people tend to ignore issues of mental health unless there are serious symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2023) mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress,...
Migration as an economic avenue for women
Photo by Mohamed_Hassan on Pixabay As we conclude women’s month in South Africa we give special attention to women migrant workers, have migrated to seek economic opportunities to ensure sustainable livelihoods for themselves and their families. According to ILO (2023), feminisation of labour migration is increasing with women accounting for slightly half of all the international migrants globally. In South Africa, large numbers of migrant women live in the country, in...
Maternal Health of Migrants in South Africa
Photo by Mohamed Hassan on Pixabay Maternal health is a key issue in any health discourse globally and access to maternal health care is a concern for all governments (Machiwenyika & Munatswa, 2020). Ensuring access to maternal health for all is essential in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2023, particularly goal number 3 “Good Health and Well-being” and goal number 5, “Gender Equality”. Some of the targets for goal number 3 by 2030 include reducing maternal...
Youth and Migration
Photo by Geralt on Pixabay Young people around the world continue to move internally and internationally because of a myriad of factors that either push them out of their country/place of origin or pull factors that attract them to the destination area. Some of these factors include employment, education, marriage, and to escape from poverty, violence, conflict, and environmental change (United Nations Department of...
1 of June Scalabrini Day celebration
1 of June marks the memory of Bishop Scalabrini, founder of the Congregation of the Scalabrini Fathers and promoter of the pastoral care of migrants, refugees and people on the move around the world. SIHMA, together with the sister organisations Scalabrini Centre and Lawrence House, will have a moment of reflection and training with its staff on this day. Together we want to focus our attention on the four verbs, suggested by Pope Francis...
