Bulahar, Somaliland
11 March 2023
HHA Fieldworker
In the remote village of Bulahaar, nestled in the arid landscapes of Somaliland, lived a bright and hopeful 17-year-old girl named Aaliya. Life in Bulahaar was a daily struggle, especially for young girls like her who bore the burden of fetching water from distant sources and contending with limited access to healthcare. The scarcity of clean water and medical facilities had long plagued the community, creating an environment of hardship and despair. But all of this began to change, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Horn Humanitarian Action (HHA).
For as long as she could remember, Aaliya’s days were defined by the arduous task of collecting water. She would rise before dawn, embarking on a grueling journey that took her over 12 kilometers away from her home. The path was treacherous, marked by rocky terrains and scorching heat. Despite the physical toll, Aaliya persevered, knowing that her family depended on her to bring back the precious resource.
“I used to walk over 12 kilometres every day just to fetch water,” Aaliya recalled. “It was exhausting, and it took up so much of my time that I barely had energy left for school or helping my family with other tasks.”
When Horn Humanitarian Action announced its plans to implement WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) initiatives in Bulahaar, the news was met with a mix of skepticism and cautious optimism. The villagers had heard promises before, only to see them dissolve into thin air. But this time, something felt different. The HHA team was not just talking; they were listening. They engaged with community members, understanding their needs and challenges firsthand.
One of the first projects HHA undertook was the construction of shallow wells within close proximity to the village. The sight of drilling equipment and the hum of machinery brought a sense of excitement and anticipation. Aaliya watched with wide eyes as workers toiled tirelessly, inching closer to a dream she had dared not voice.
Finally, the day arrived when clean water gushed forth from the newly constructed well, mere steps from Aaliya’s home. The joy and relief were palpable. The entire village gathered to celebrate this monumental achievement, their faces glowing with gratitude.
“I am so happy to have this shallow well near our home,” Aaliya beamed. “The water was so far away before, but now it’s just a short walk. I have more time for school, and I’m not as tired anymore.”
Transforming Healthcare Access
Water was just the beginning. HHA knew that access to clean water needed to be complemented by robust healthcare services. The mobile health team from HHA began visiting Bulahaar twice a month, bringing much-needed medical support to the doorstep of the villagers.
Aaliya had always struggled with her vision, but her family could not afford to take her to a distant city for treatment. When the HHA mobile health team arrived, they conducted comprehensive health check-ups, distributing free medications and addressing common health concerns.
During one of their visits, Aaliya received a pair of eyeglasses and treatment for her eyes. For the first time, she could see the world around her with clarity. The impact was immediate and profound.
“The HHA health team comes to us every month twice. They gave me eyeglasses and free medication for my eyes. It has changed my life,” Aaliya shared, her voice filled with appreciation. “I no longer struggle to see in school, and I can help my family better.”
A Brighter Future
With access to clean water and regular healthcare, Aaliya’s life transformed in ways she had never imagined. Her days were no longer consumed by the endless quest for water. Instead, she could focus on her education and dreams. The time saved allowed her to excel in her studies, and she began to dream of becoming a nurse, inspired by the compassion and dedication of the HHA health team.
“I used to worry about water and my health every day. Now, I have hope and dreams for the future,” Aaliya said, her eyes shining with determination. “As a young girl, I appreciate the dedication HHA has shown us. They have changed our lives, and I want to do the same for others someday.”
Community-Wide Impact
Aaliya’s story is just one of many in Bulahaar. The WASH and health initiatives by Horn Humanitarian Action have brought life-changing benefits to the entire community. Mothers no longer feared for their children’s health due to dirty water. Elders received regular check-ups, and children like Aaliya could pursue their education without the constant burden of water collection.
The success of these projects extended beyond immediate relief. HHA’s efforts fostered a sense of unity and resilience within the community. They trained local volunteers to maintain the wells and support the mobile health team, ensuring sustainability and long-term impact.
Aaliya’s journey from hardship to hope embodies the transformative power of Horn Humanitarian Action’s WASH and health initiatives. Through their unwavering dedication and innovative solutions, HHA has not only addressed the urgent needs of Bulahaar but also paved the way for a brighter, healthier, and more empowered future for all.
As Aaliya and her community continue to thrive, they stand as a testament to the profound impact of humanitarian efforts rooted in empathy, collaboration, and a vision for a better tomorrow. Together, with organizations like HHA leading the way, communities across Somaliland can look forward to a future where basic needs are met, dreams are nurtured, and every individual has the opportunity to lead a life of dignity and purpose.