Halima Mohamed Ali

Halima, from the small, dusty town of Merti in northern Isiolo County, carries the weight of a life shaped by hardship and endurance. The youngest in her family, she spent her childhood herding her father’s goats, never having the chance to attend school.

Married at 15, she soon became a mother to three children. Determined to educate herself, she briefly attended Gumbaro School, but the demands of raising a family forced her to abandon her studies. Her husband, a watchman, provided just enough to sustain them—until illness took him away, leaving Halima to support their family alone.
With no formal education and few opportunities, she turned to selling charcoal, doing everything in her power to provide. But when this was no longer enough, and tragedy struck again with the loss of two of her children, grief and stress took a devastating toll on her health. Diagnosed with hypertension, ulcers, and later a kidney condition, she found herself relying on the kindness of neighbors to survive.

Determined to find a way forward, Halima sought help from Mama Ibado Charity, where she shared her struggles. Recognizing her need, she was enrolled in the feeding and healthcare program, giving her access to food and essential medical care.

Despite all she has endured, Halima continues to meet each day with quiet strength. Her journey is a reminder that life’s challenges are unpredictable, but resilience and community support can bring light even in the darkest times.