Halima Abdi

Born and raised in Bula Pesa, Isiolo County, Halima Abdi grew up in a household of eight siblings, where hardship was a familiar companion. From a young age, she took on casual jobs to help her family, knowing that survival required sacrifice.

At just 15, she was married and soon embraced motherhood, raising six children alongside her husband, a dedicated driver. But life’s cruelty struck too soon. Just months after their youngest child was born, her husband passed away, leaving her with the overwhelming task of raising their children alone. As if grief weren’t enough, she later endured the unimaginable pain of burying two of them.

Left with no source of income, Halima turned to housework, cleaning homes to keep her family afloat. But the wages were barely enough, and there were days when hunger forced her to beg for food. Despite her determination, none of her surviving children received formal education or found stable jobs, deepening the weight on her shoulders. The unrelenting stress eventually took a toll on her health, and she was diagnosed with ulcers.

One day, while seeking help in town, she heard about Mama Ibado Charity (MIC). Clinging to a glimmer of hope, she sought out their offices and shared her struggles. The MIC team, moved by her story, visited her home and enrolled her in their feeding program, ensuring she would no longer have to go hungry.
For the past twelve years, Halima has relied on this support, which has eased her daily burdens. In the last two years, access to healthcare assistance has further improved her well-being, allowing her to live with dignity.

Halima’s journey is a stark reminder that life’s hardships can fall upon anyone, no matter how strong or determined they once were.