MAKO ALI OSMAN

For years, Mako, a 74-year-old woman, made her living selling traditional medicine in Isiolo Town, just outside the mosque. Every morning, she would set up her small display, hoping to make enough for food or basic needs. Some days she earned two hundred shillings, other days a hundred, or sometimes, nothing at all. 

Life, however, took a painful turn. Mako began to fall ill, her body weakened by hypertension and diabetes. The work she once did with ease became impossible. Since Ramadhan, she has been unable to sell, her days now marked by long stretches of rest and prayer. For a woman who had spent a lifetime providing for herself, the silence of those days was heavy.

As her strength faded and her savings ran out, a glimmer of hope appeared. Word spread through Isiolo that Mama Ibado Charity was registering new beneficiaries for their feeding program. Despite her weakness, Mako gathered her courage and went to their office. That decision changed everything. She was added to the list of beneficiaries and soon began receiving food and essential support. For the first time in months, she felt relief. The simple act of receiving food was more than sustenance; it was comfort, dignity, and a reminder that she was not forgotten.

Then came the corona period, a time that tested everyone. Yet even in that hardship, Mama Ibado Charity remained steadfast. The organization built Mako a house, offering her safety and stability when she needed it most. What once felt like endless struggle began to shift toward peace. Each Thursday, Mako walks to the clinic for her medicine. Though the journey is not easy, she is thankful that every time she goes, she receives her medication without fail. The treatment helps her manage her illness and gives her the strength to keep going.

“These days, I am often sick,” she says softly. “I don’t have much energy. But I thank God for the help I receive.” Her voice carries both exhaustion and faith, proof of a woman who has weathered much yet still finds reason to be grateful. Mako often speaks about the late Mama Ibado with deep affection. “I am grateful,” she says.

“May God rest her soul in peace, and may He bless and help her children.” Her words, simple yet powerful, echo the gratitude of many whose lives have been touched by the charity.

Yet many like Mako still need support. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps restore strength and peace to those who have given so much of themselves.