Natari Natoi

Born in 1958 in Ngaremara, Isiolo County, Natari’s path was decided for her at birth. Her parents never considered education an option—instead; she was expected to tend to the family’s cattle. At 16, she was married in a traditional ceremony, embracing the responsibilities of both a wife and a mother. Over the years, she raised six children of her own and took in her brother’s two orphaned children, caring for them as if they were her own.

While her husband worked as a casual laborer, Natari remained at home, ensuring their large family was cared for. Life, though modest, was happy. But everything changed when her husband was diagnosed with hypertension. As his health declined, so did their financial stability. Determined to provide, Natari started selling vegetables, hoping to make ends meet.

Over time, some of her children moved away, while others remained with her, struggling with unemployment. Then, in 2001, she faced her greatest loss—her husband passed away, leaving her without a reliable breadwinner. Forced to adapt, she relocated to the Maisha Bora area to care for her elderly and ailing mother, Mary Esekon, who was a Mama Ibado Charity (MIC) beneficiary under both the Seniors Feeding Program and the Housing Project.

When her mother passed away in September 2021, Natari, now of eligible age, was enrolled in the Seniors Feeding Program, ensuring she received the support she desperately needed.
Today, Natari no longer begs for food, as the monthly rations from Mama Ibado Charity provide much-needed relief. With some stability restored, she now focuses on caring for her grandchildren, ensuring they are nurtured and loved despite the hardships they continue to face.