Zema Salima Abdi

Zema Abdi Salim was born on August 8, 1968, in Amalemba, Kakamega County. She currently lives in the Majengo area of Amalemba, the same community where she has spent her entire life. As the lastborn in a large family of eight children, she grew up in a lively and busy household, spending her early years learning from the experiences of her many older brothers and sisters.

She went to school in her home area, doing well through primary school and starting her secondary education. She managed to study until Form Two, but she had to stop there. Her family faced money problems and other small daily hurdles that made it impossible for her to stay in class.

After her school days ended, Zema stayed with her parents to help take care of the home. Because she couldn’t finish her studies or find a steady job, she spent her time doing house chores and supporting her family. She has lived in that same family home from that time until today.

As she grew older, Zema became a mother to one son. Life was often very hard, especially after her father passed away. He left her a small house, and she stayed there, relying on the little rent she collected and the small help she got from her son, who works as a football coach.

Finding enough food for herself and her grandchildren became a very big problem. Eventually, she decided to go to the Mama Ibado Charity Foundation to ask for help. She spoke about her struggles and how hard it was to survive, and the team there listened and signed her up for food support.

Every month, she receives supplies like rice, sugar, oil, salt, tea, and milk.

"Moving from a life of always worrying about our next meal to having regular food has given my family a new sense of hope," says Zema Abdi.

She is very thankful for the peace this program has brought to her home.

Even with this great help, Zema still has many needs because she has no permanent job and many grandchildren to watch over. She still needs support to keep her family healthy and to help her grandchildren get the bright future she wasn't able to have.