Ex-Liberian Refugees Observe 10 Years of Triumph at BVA

The Buduburam Veterans Association (BVA) recently marked its 10th anniversary with a heartfelt celebration, reflecting on the journey of former Liberian refugees who sought refuge in Ghana and their incredible transformation over the years. 

Held under the theme "Bring Memories Back," the anniversary event was a moment of reflection, honoring the impact of the Buduburam Refugee Settlement and the collective strength of its inhabitants.

Joseph N. N. Swen, Head of Communications and Public Relations at the Civil Service Agency of Liberia, was invited as the guest speaker to share his reflections on the significance of Buduburam. 

Swen’s speech underscored the profound lessons learned from the settlement, emphasizing how it became a symbol of resilience and transformation for thousands of refugees who fled Liberia’s brutal civil conflict.

"The story of Buduburam is far from one of despair – it is a narrative of courage, ingenuity, and unbending spirit that reformed lives and ignited the energies of transformation," Swen remarked. 

He noted that, despite the immediate relief and safety that Buduburam provided, it also came with immense challenges, as refugees faced the harsh reality of starting life anew with limited resources.

Yet, according to Swen, it was within these very challenges that Buduburam became more than just a temporary shelter. It evolved into a powerful symbol of self-transformation. He explained, "Buduburam became a vessel of transformation, where self and collective resilience and solidarity were not just tested but nurtured and refined."

Surviving at Buduburam, Swen continued, gradually shifted from merely meeting basic needs to fostering a sense of purpose and hope. The settlement became a hub of ingenuity and resourcefulness, with refugees finding innovative ways to turn adversity into opportunity. Businesses, schools, churches, and vocational training programs began to emerge, showcasing the spirit of entrepreneurship that took root despite the lack of formal economic structures.

"Despite the lack of formal economic structures, refugees showcased extraordinary resourcefulness. Small businesses and initiatives such as schools, churches, community-based organizations (CBOs), vocational training programs, and more emerged. In other words, the spirit of entrepreneurship took root," Swen highlighted.

In his speech, Swen emphasized how the entrepreneurial spirit in Buduburam not only led to economic activity but also helped refugees regain their dignity. "Through every endeavor, we reclaimed a sense of dignity, proving that even in the harshest conditions, the human spirit can thrive, transforming dependency into self-empowerment," he said. Buduburam, he noted, became a vital economic hub in the Gomoa Buduburam district of Ghana.

Reflecting on the broader legacy of Buduburam, Swen spoke of how the lessons learned there continue to benefit the communities where former refugees now reside. "Our experiences and self-transformative lessons learned at Buduburam have become a foundation for broader contributions to every society we find ourselves in," he said. These lessons of perseverance, empathy, and innovation continue to shape the lives of former refugees who have since reintegrated into Liberia and beyond.

Swen also emphasized the vital role of the BVA, which continues to provide a strong support network for former Liberian refugees who returned to Liberia. The BVA fosters the same sense of solidarity that was nurtured at Buduburam, organizing gatherings and welfare events to help former refugees navigate their reintegration process.

"The BVA fosters the sense of togetherness that was cultivated at Buduburam by organizing regular gatherings, including welfare events, and acting as a catalyst for a support network," Swen remarked. "It ensures that the bonds of solidarity remain intact, providing a sense of belonging and mutual support during the reintegration process."

Swen also stressed that the BVA serves as a reminder of the resourcefulness and self-belief that allowed former refugees to survive and thrive at Buduburam. As they reintegrate into Liberia, he urged them to apply the same creativity, self-belief, and innovation to contribute to the country's rebuilding efforts.

"Although our lives as refugees were challenging, we braved the storms and survived on the basis of creativity, self-belief, and innovation," Swen said. "Now that we are back in our motherland, we should and must apply even greater efforts and mindsets to contribute constructively to rebuilding and rebranding our lives and, by extension, Liberia."

In closing, Swen acknowledged the significant contributions of former Liberian refugees from Buduburam, who are now making an impact in Liberia's public and private sectors. He lauded the BVA for being a beacon of hope, a reminder of resilience, and a network for continued support.

"Former Liberian refugees from Buduburam are making significant headway and contributions in both the public and private sectors of Liberia and elsewhere," Swen concluded, reiterating his message of continued solidarity, determination, and hope for the future.