A SPELL IN SOMALIA

This book is an account of 2 visits to Somalia made by a Scottish doctor. It offers rare insight into the challenges of working in a country under the ruthless control of Islamic fundamentalists. With wry humour, it details the successes and failures, the uncertainties and risks accompanying humanitarian endeavours in a conflict zone.

At a time when Western countries, in an attempt to deflect terrorism, are increasing their donations to the poorest regions of the world, it questions the justification for such aid. It also reveals some surprising facts about the process of delivering assistance to underdeveloped countries.

By providing anecdotes of daily life, it demonstrates the difficulties locals and expatriates encounter as they struggle to cope with adversity and danger. It illustrates both the shocking brutality towards women and the careless approach to the destitute displayed by those charged with their care.

By way of light relief from Somalia and its unrelenting problems, it intersperses several of the chapters with sketches, mainly humorous in nature, drawn from elsewhere in Africa.

All royalties from sales of this book will be donated to the Tiyanjane Palliative Care Service in Blantyre, Malawi. To see how your money will be spent, take a look at http://vimeo.com/28361239