SABERU KABILU ISSAC

Saberu Issac was born in Meru, where she grew up in a close-knit family surrounded by siblings. Her early years were marked by both joy and the simple struggles of rural life, learning responsibility and care from a young age as she assisted her family in household chores and tending to daily tasks.

As an adult, Saberu left her home in Meru to move to Isiolo County with her husband, hoping to build a better life for their family. She envisioned stability, support, and opportunities for her children, but life did not unfold as she had hoped. Shortly after settling, her husband married another wife, leaving Saberu alone to care for their children. The weight of providing for multiple young ones, along with her grandchildren who depended on her, quickly became overwhelming.

During this period, Saberu faced extreme hardships. Even basic needs like food and clean water were scarce. There were days when meals were uncertain, and the struggle to keep her children and grandchildren nourished was constant. The responsibilities of caregiving, combined with the emotional toll of her husband’s departure, made daily life a battle. Despite her efforts, she often went without so that her children and grandchildren could eat.

Her life began to change when a team from Mama Ibado Charity visited her neighborhood. Carrying a book and documenting the needs of families, the officers assessed her situation. Saberu shared her story openly, explaining the challenges she faced as a single caregiver raising children and grandchildren. Seeing her resilience and need, the team registered her as a beneficiary of their program.

Since joining the program, Saberu’s life has improved significantly. She now has regular access to food, easing the burden that once weighed heavily on her shoulders. She attends weekly clinic visits, receiving treatment whenever she is unwell, which has helped maintain her health and allowed her to continue caring for her family. Every morning, she prepares porridge from the support provided by Mama Ibado Charity for her grandchildren before they go to school. The simple act of feeding them has become a source of joy, giving her the reassurance that they start their day healthy and ready to learn. She describes the relief this brings as life-changing, knowing that the basic needs of her family are met.