As Somalia grapples with the far-reaching consequences of climate change and conflict, one thing remains abundantly clear: the urgent need to address the healthcare challenges faced by internally displaced women and girls. Among those making a profound impact in this endeavor is Zeina Abdullahi, a dedicated midwife from the Kismayo Midwifery Training Institute, supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Together with community health workers, Zeina's unwavering commitment shines a light on the struggles and triumphs of displaced individuals, providing a glimmer of hope within the confines of El Jale IDP camp.
El Jale IDP camp, situated on the outskirts of Kismayo, has become a refuge for those uprooted by the devastating combination of severe drought and ongoing conflict. For Edla Abdulahi and countless others, the loss of their camels and goats due to the drought serves as a stark reminder of the dire circumstances they face. Arriving at the camp from remote rural areas, they bring with them limited knowledge of healthcare practices and a lack of access to medical facilities. This reality has led many, including Edla, to rely on traditional birth attendants for childbirth, exposing them and their infants to significant risks. Within the El Jale IDP camp, dire needs persist. Basic necessities such as shelter, nutrition, and clean water remain elusive for many. However, amidst these challenges, a lifeline emerges through the UNFPA Integrated SRH GBV service center and its implementing partner Somalia lifeline organization (SOLO).