- Somali Land
Hinda Abdi Muhumed, 40, lives in the village of Gudubi, in central Somaliland. She is the head of the family, but like her husband, she was unemployed. “I was unable to feed my seven children”.
She was selected to be a Community Animal Health Workers trainee, an event that would change her life, as well as those of her fellow villagers.
“I received the training from Candlelight [a local association supported by Oxfam] and received a veterinary kit and animal drugs, to get me started.”
In regions where most people depend on their livestock, Community Animal Health Workers are crucial. “I treat sick animals and make the necessary follow-up of their condition and problems; I keep records (by disease type and by animal species) and give advice on livestock housing, feeding etc. I also participate in Somaliland national vaccination campaigns”.
Remembering animal health situation a few years ago, Hinda says, “Our lives were uncertain. Pastoralists didn’t have any power over their animals’ health”.
She is very proud of providing good quality veterinary services and being available for her community. “This is an opportunity for me to be a true actor in my community.”
During the lean period (between yields), people take animal drugs or services on credit which could affect her livelihood, but, “my community is very generous and pays back the credit after they recovered from droughts.”
Her family’s conditions have improved and they can have a meal three times a day from the income that Hinda earns. She says she now makes enough money from the service to support her family.
Photo: Amal Nagib / Oxfam
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