From Struggles to Success Through Resilience Programs

A narrow dirt path winds through Jambaluul, a serene riverine village in Afgooye District of Lower Shabelle. The scent of roasting maize wafts from a modest shed, where Aisha Mohamed’s two children are busy frying green maize on a round clay stove. Outside, freshly harvested cowpeas lie under the scorching sun, drying in preparation for storage. This simple yet resilience scene reflects the remarkable transformation of Aisha Mohamed’s life.

Aisha Mohamed, a mother of two, inherited two acres of farmland from her late father. Like many in her community, agriculture is her family’s sole source of income. Yet, years of hardship had left her struggling to make ends meet. The lack of a functional irrigation system made accessing water from the nearby river a daily challenge, leaving her crops vulnerable to drought and diminishing yields.

Recognizing the needs of vulnerable farmers like Aisha Mohamed, HIJRA, in partnership with CONCERN WW, launched a cash-for-work program to restore critical agricultural infrastructure in Jambaluul. The program offered temporary employment to community members, providing them with financial support while empowering them to rehabilitate vital irrigation canals.

Through a transparent selection process led by community elders,  beneficiaries, including Aisha Mohamed, were chosen to desilt and repair the canal. Their collective efforts restored the canal’s functionality, ensuring a steady water supply to surrounding farms. The impact was immediate and profound: Aisha Mohamed could now irrigate her crops more efficiently, increasing both the quantity and quality of her produce such as tomatoes, lettuce, and other vegetables.

“For the first time in years, I am confident about the future of my farm,” says Aisha Mohamed, a smile lighting up her face. “The canal rehabilitation transformed our lives. This season’s harvest will be the most remarkable I’ve ever had.”

The increased income has allowed Aisha Mohamed to secure better food for her family, invest in their future, and even plan for her children’s education—an aspiration that once seemed out of reach.

In Jambaluul village, stories like Aisha Mohamed’s are becoming increasingly common. HIJRA’s resilience initiatives are helping families establish sustainable farming practices, boost their incomes, and improve their overall quality of life. These programs underscore the transformative power of targeted support and community-driven solutions.