During his visit to Ba’ad, Juneydi was deeply moved by the dire conditions and the absence of essential services. With over 300 households in the village, the lack of medical facilities was especially concerning. The nearest town with medical assistance was 30 kilometres away, posing a significant challenge for the villagers who had limited access to transportation. Shocked by the high rate of maternal mortality due to the absence of trained midwives, Juneydi decided to take action upon his return to the UK.
Collaborating with individuals from the village and a team of doctors and professionals in Mogadishu, Juneydi initiated a fundraising campaign to support Ba’ad. With the invaluable support of Dr. Ahmed Abdi Osman and by reaching out to relatives in Somalia and the diaspora, they successfully raised a significant sum of money.
The first project undertaken was the refurbishment and expansion of the only primary school in Ba’ad. The school had been closed for nearly eight years and was in a state of disrepair. The funds raised played a crucial role in transforming it into a safe and conducive learning environment for the children of the community. This accomplishment was met with immense appreciation from the villagers.
The next endeavour was the construction of a medical centre, dedicated to the well-being of mothers and children. Equipped with a small ward that could handle minor medical emergencies, the centre aimed to address the pressing healthcare needs of Ba’ad and nine surrounding villages. While efforts to secure equipment from non-governmental organisations have not yet been successful, Juneydi remains determined and hopeful, knowing that their fundraising efforts have already achieved so much.
Juneydi’s dedication and commitment to rebuilding Ba’ad village have brought about significant improvements in education and healthcare. With ongoing efforts, he envisions a safer and easier life for the residents of Ba’ad. Through his inspiring work, Juneydi serves as a testament to the power of individuals who take it upon themselves to make a difference in their communities.
Additionally, Dr. Ahmed Abdi Osman, a key supporter of Juneydi’s efforts, has taken a further step to sponsor a female nurse from Ba’ad village to undergo medical training in the capital city of Mogadishu. This invaluable opportunity will equip the nurse with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality healthcare services to the village.
By investing in the education and training of a local nurse, Dr. Osman is not only empowering an individual but also ensuring a sustainable solution to the healthcare challenges faced by Ba’ad village. This initiative will not only benefit the villagers in Ba’ad but also contribute to the overall improvement of healthcare in the surrounding communities.
The sponsorship of the female nurse demonstrates the collaborative and forward-thinking approach taken by Juneydi, Dr. Osman, and their team. It is a testament to their determination to create lasting positive change in Ba’ad. Their efforts are an inspiration and serve as a reminder of the transformative impact that individuals can have on the lives of others.
(Pictured left to right) Dr Ahmed Abdi Osman, Dr Muna Ismail, Juneydi Farah