A group of 22 refugees from Eritrea and Somalia left Malta early yesterday morning to start a new life in the US.

The refugees, the first group of refugees that have been sent to the US, were ecstatic at the new life that is awaiting them in America.

Fathi Ahi Dualeh, a 27-year-old man from Somalia said that he has been in Malta since 2004.

“I am going to meet my wife who lives in the US and I can’t wait to see her. We have been married for seven years, but at least she came down to visit me in Malta last year,” said Mr Dualeh.

During his stay in Malta he learnt to speak Maltese fluently and thanked everyone for all their help.

“Malta is very kind and merciful. The Maltese have kind hearts and I would like to thank them for everything they did.” However, said Mr Dualeh, “I am very excited and can’t wait to go to the US to meet my wife and start my new life.”

Jesuit Refugee Service director Mgr Philip Calleja explained that the refugees never travelled by plane and that it was a new experience for them.

Antoinette Zammit from the Red Cross said that although it is hard to say goodbye to the refugees, they are moving on to a better life.

She explained that the majority of the group was made up of men because, especially in the case of Eritreans, they are enrolled in the army at a young age.

“You might think that they are backwards but they are just as up-to-date on fashion and other matters as Maltese people are,” said Ms Zammit. “Usually the girls are very fashion conscious while the men catch on quickly.”

She pointed out that the refugees are sorely missed by the Maltese families who helped them.

“Although there are people who speak out against immigrants, there are many, many more who help them and welcome them with an open heart,” said Ms Zammit. “When the refugees leave they miss Malta and the hospitality and kindness of the Maltese.”

Many of the refugees still keep in touch with the families and with Ms Zammit.

A family with an eight-month-old baby who was born in Malta also left yesterday with the group.

Baby Romina, who turned eight months yesterday, was given the last cuddles and kisses from a Maltese family who were in tears.

Ms Zammit explained that they used to take care of the baby while the mother was out at work.

The mother, Hansu, from Eritrea said that she has been in Malta for two years with her husband.

“The Maltese helped us so much – some of them are my second family,” she said. “However, we are looking forward to starting a new life in the US.”