MOHAMED MUSA ISSAH

For decades, Mohamed Issa Musa has been a respected elder and a familiar presence in the community of Isiolo. From an early age, he understood the value of education and service. He worked hard to complete his secondary school education at a time when opportunities for further education were limited, particularly for young people in his generation. With a strong sense of responsibility to his community, Mohamed went on to join the local government workforce, beginning a career in public service. At the time, his future appeared promising. He had stable employment, a growing sense of purpose, and the opportunity to contribute to the development of the community he called home.

Mohamed’s life changed dramatically when he was just 23 years old. A serious road accident left him with severe injuries and lasting health complications. His physical condition eventually forced him to leave his government position, bringing his promising career to an unexpected end. The loss of his employment created significant uncertainty, but Mohamed refused to allow the setback to define the rest of his life. He adapted to his circumstances and turned his attention to building a stable home for his growing family.

In 1994, through years of careful saving and determination, Mohamed established a home in the Kambi Garba area of Isiolo. The house became more than just a place to live. It became a foundation for his family and a place where his children could grow and pursue opportunities he had always valued. As Mohamed grew older, however, providing for his family became increasingly difficult. Without formal employment, a running business, or a reliable monthly income, meeting the household’s basic needs became a constant challenge.

Even in the face of these difficulties, Mohamed remained deeply committed to his children’s education. Having experienced the value of education in his own life, he wanted his children to have opportunities to build better futures for themselves.

Today, at 65, Mohamed is supporting children at different stages of their education. Some are still in secondary school, others have recently completed their Form Four examinations, while others have progressed to college. Meeting school fees, purchasing learning materials, and providing for everyday household needs without a dependable source of income has placed considerable pressure on the family.

Support from the Mama Ibado Foundation has helped ease some of that burden. Through its community support programmes and regular relief distributions, Mohamed’s family has received essential assistance that has helped them navigate periods of financial hardship. With some of the pressure of providing food and other basic necessities eased, Mohamed has been able to direct more of his limited resources toward his children’s education and other household needs.

For Mohamed, the support represents more than immediate relief. It offers his family a measure of stability during a difficult season and gives his children a greater opportunity to remain in school and continue pursuing their education.