Huka Kule Kanu

Huka Kule, a 79-year-old woman known for her humor and warmth, hides a harrowing tale beneath her laughter—a story deeply rooted in the chaos of the Shifta Wars of the 1960s. Born in Garbatulla, Kule's life was forever altered when Cushite communities were targeted during this harrowing conflict. Her hometown became a battlefield, echoing with gunshots as soldiers executed a brutal massacre. Men, women, children, and even livestock were indiscriminately killed.

Among the victims was Kule’s husband, who was tending cattle at a watering point when he was gunned down. Overwhelmed with fear, Kule fled with her two young children—a two-year-old and a four-year-old—while carrying a third child in her womb. Together with other terrified refugees, she embarked on a perilous journey, leaving behind the devastation of Garba Tula.

Traveling by night to avoid detection, they hid in forests during the day, surviving on wild fruits, raw maize, and even leaves. The journey was fraught with danger, from the threat of starvation to encounters with wild animals. Kule's humor shines through even in recalling these moments: “Even elephants became our brothers. We were more afraid of the army than the wild animals.”

After a grueling month, the refugees arrived in Isiolo, where they cleared a forested area to establish a settlement now known as Ola Odha. While the physical danger subsided, life remained challenging for Kule as she rebuilt her life from scratch.

Today, Kule's resilience shines brighter thanks to the intervention of Mama Ibado Charity. Enrolled in the seniors' feeding program, Kule receives vital food rations, offering her a sense of stability in her advanced years. Despite the charity's invaluable support, Kule’s needs remain immense.

Your support can further improve Kule's quality of life and help her continue her journey with dignity. Contributions to Mama Ibado Charity can provide additional resources for seniors like Kule, ensuring they are not only remembered but cherished in their twilight years.