In drought-stricken, conflict-affected communities where health services are scarce and survival is precarious, hope has emerged through vital assistance. Thanks to support from the European Union’s ECHO, the UNFPA-supported OSPAD facility in Mogadishu, Somalia, has been able to provide life-saving medical supplies that make a world of difference for those most in need, including pregnant and lactating women (PLW) and children under five.

For Istaahil Ahmed Warsame, a 45-year-old member of the community served by OSPAD, this support has been nothing short of life-changing. Before receiving help from OSPAD, she was in dire straits, battling illness alone and struggling to make ends meet. "I was sick and barely able to provide for myself," Istaahil recalls. Without access to proper healthcare, her future seemed bleak.

But the arrival of critical supplies from ECHO changed everything. "At my lowest point, I didn’t know how I would survive," she says. "That’s when OSPAD stepped in." The ECHO-supported facility provided her with essential medical care, medications, and supplies that immediately relieved her suffering.

"They gave me medical care, clothing, and most importantly, hope."

The support went beyond just emergency interventions. Istaahil highlights how the OSPAD team didn’t simply drop off supplies; they brought health education directly to her home. “They offered seminars that taught us about health and wellbeing,” she explains. “The certificates we earned from these sessions gave us something to be proud of and work towards."

These educational efforts, supported by the life-saving supplies provided through ECHO, have not only improved her health but have also empowered her to take control of her wellbeing. "For the first time in years, I feel healthy and strong. I feel empowered," she says, smiling.

What stands out most for Istaahil is the consistency of the support. "Whenever something happens, the OSPAD team is always there. The supplies they bring—whether medical or for daily needs—have made us feel cared for and valued as a community."

Istaahil is now a beacon of hope for others in her community, urging them to seek assistance from OSPAD. "If you need medical help, whether for conditions like FGM or anything else, reach out. They are here for us."

The impact of ECHO’s contributions is undeniable. Thanks to the critical supplies and ongoing support through the OSPAD facility, Istaahil and many others now have a brighter future. "ECHO and UNFPA have changed my life," she says gratefully, "and I know they will continue to help so many more in our community."