Transforming Lives Through Self-Sufficiency

Life can sometimes feel like an unending struggle, especially when circumstances conspire against you. Such was the case for a 75-year-old man named Hassan, who spent five long years relying on cash assistance from various organizations. However, his story took a remarkable turn when he ventured into entrepreneurship. Today, Hassan runs a shop where he sells fresh vegetables and construction timber, generating an income that ranges between eight and ten dollars daily—a modest sum, yet enough to ensure his family enjoys three meals a day.

But that’s not all. This month alone, Hassan made an investment that signifies his ever-growing independence: he purchased four goats and cows for a total of $400. “Aid is not something you can rely on every month,” Hassan reflected thoughtfully. “I realized I needed to save something, as life is full of unpredictable challenges. Illness, for instance, can strike at any moment, and we must have a safety net.” His prudent foresight has positioned him to navigate life’s uncertainties more effectively.

Moreover, this year marks another milestone: he enrolled two of his sons in the first grade at Al Qalam primary school, a financial commitment of just $20 monthly. In years past, such educational expenses were beyond his reach, leaving him burdened by the weight of unfulfilled aspirations. Hassan’s family was uprooted from their home in Booram, located about 30 kilometers from Baidoa, back in 2018 when a severe drought devastated their livestock—their primary source of livelihood. Yet now, he dreams of moving his family from the displacement camp to a permanent home in town, bringing stability to their lives.

Hassan’s journey towards autonomy echoes the experiences of others in his community, like Ali Mohamed Ibrahim, who has undergone a similar economic transformation. In May, Ali opened a grocery and general goods store that now brings in between nine and ten dollars daily. After working diligently for a full year, he managed to repay a debt of $400 he incurred upon his arrival in the area. Ali offers a poignant contrast to his previous life of dependency and uncertainty.

“Before, we were waiting for someone to give us something,” he said. “We used to ask ourselves if the month’s aid had arrived and how much was left. Sometimes, the aid would be cut off altogether, creating anxiety and frustration. Now, we don’t have that worry. We are independent.” This newfound self-sufficiency has not only lifted Ali’s spirits but also greatly enhanced his family’s well-being.

Over the past two and a half years, Ali diligently saved $1,800 by setting aside $60 monthly from humanitarian aid. “I feel a tremendous change—I am no longer who I used to be,” he mentioned with a sense of pride. His strides toward self-sufficiency extend beyond basic survival; he now delights in providing his children with beautiful clothes and can confidently afford their education. He pays $20 monthly for four of his children enrolled in both formal and Koranic schools. Ali’s family, once rain-fed farmers from Warishe in the Bay region, had to leave behind their three-hectare farm in early 2022 due to the dual challenges of drought and conflict. Yet, in the face of adversity, they continue to flourish.

Another remarkable example of this transformative spirit is Ibrahim Mohamed Yusuf, a 29-year-old who found motivation among his friends, many of whom received cash aid. Spurred by their encouragement, he decided to save specifically for starting his own business. When his humanitarian aid payments came to an end in April, Ibrahim took the plunge and launched a small vegetable business with $540 he saved over 18 months by reserving $30 monthly. Today, his new venture generates a daily income of six to seven dollars, significantly enhancing the quality of life for his family.

“I use my earnings to support my family’s needs, such as medical expenses and education for my children, who are now attending both school and Koranic classes. The burdens I carried have lifted!” Ibrahim exclaimed, his voice filled with relief. Although he lacked prior business experience, the successful ventures of his friends served as a powerful example and guide. He realized that their collective wisdom had created a golden opportunity—one that ultimately transformed his circumstances.

These stories are more than just tales of economic success; they are testaments to resilience, ingenuity, and the human spirit’s ability to rise above challenging circumstances. Each journey reflects a critical theme: the importance of self-sufficiency and the capacity to adapt. As communities navigate the complexities of life, these individuals remind us that change is possible, even in the direst situations. Their experiences prompt us to consider, what would we do if faced with adversity? How can we harness the power of saving and entrepreneurship to create a brighter future? Perhaps, in these stories, we find both inspiration and a call to action.

In a world where reliance on aid can feel like a double-edged sword—bringing both support and dependency—the triumph of Hassan, Ali, and Ibrahim inspires us to explore pathways toward independence. What steps can we take to foster resilience in our communities? The answer may lie in small, deliberate actions that focus not just on survival but also on empowering individuals to rise and thrive.

As we observe the stories of those who have found their footing in life, we are reminded of the profound truth articulated by Mahatma Gandhi: “The future depends on what we do in the present.” Let us be inspired.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring