Dabaso Danko

Born in Garba Tulla, Isiolo South, Dabaso Danko’s life has been shaped by resilience and survival. The last living sibling among seven, he grew up in a pastoralist family, spending his childhood herding camels, cows, and goats. Life took a devastating turn when the Shifta War led to the loss of all their livestock, forcing his family into Daaba concentration camp.

At 31, Dabaso married and became a father to four children, though one has since passed away. With no livestock left to sustain them, he relocated first to Kinna, Isiolo South, and later to Bula Pesa, Isiolo, searching for a fresh start. To support his family, he worked as a casual laborer, earning just enough to educate his children up to class eight. But financial struggles meant none could continue their education.

As his children grew older, their own battles with poverty left them unable to support him. Tragedy struck again when Dabaso’s wife fell ill and passed away, leaving him alone to face the hardships of old age. Diabetes and arthritis soon weakened his body, making it impossible for him to work. With no steady income and his children living far away, his niece stepped in to care for him. Yet, even with her help, survival was a daily struggle, forcing him to beg in town and the village just to get by.

Determined to find a way forward, Dabaso sought support from Mama Ibado Charity. Recognizing his vulnerability, he was enrolled in their feeding and healthcare programs, providing him with the food and medical care he desperately needed.

Today, though he still battles health issues, Dabaso no longer has to beg for survival. The support he receives has restored his dignity, allowing him to live with some measure of comfort despite the hardships he has endured.