SAADIA ROBA

My name is Saadia Roba from Moyale Sub-County. I lost my husband to severe tuberculosis a year ago. For over six months, my husband’s health grew worse. He lost his appetite, and grew thin and very weak. His breathing became more painful each day and sometimes he coughed up blood. We resorted to natural remedies, but without avail. My husband died after several months of pain and agony.

Providing for my children has been very hectic since I have to work in a nearby quarry, mining sand and breaking stone that I can sell to get money to buy food. My daughters search for wild fruits and bitter herbs every evening on their way back from school. My health and that of my children has deteriorated because of the lack of proper food and nutrition. I have grown so weak that I cannot carry out heavy tasks anymore. It breaks my heart to see my once healthy children now very weak, emaciated, with swollen stomachs, sunken eyes, the bones in their thin bodies protruding.

I received two pregnant goats from the Goat Project that will give birth in a month’s time. These goats are now a source joy and happiness in my family as we take care of them by feeding them and giving them enough water in their newly built shed. My children now have the nutritious goat’s milk, which will boost their health tremendously. I will be able to buy vegetables and beans with the money l will get from selling the extra milk. I will also be able to buy new school uniforms and books for my children. This will also give me enough time to share the literature with my neighbors, unlike before, when I spent the entire day in the quarry and the fields.

Your generosity has given us as the vulnerable and less fortunate individuals in our society new hope. I will give Mama Shana, a widow like me, two kids so that she can also have hope for a better future.