Center in Mogadishu accommodates disabled Somalis

Friday, December 23, 2011

advertisements

Disability is perceived as an added burden in Somalia, a nation that lacks adequate medical provisions, a situation that makes it difficult for patients to get the help they need.

The physically and mentally disabled are usually stigmatized by their families, a stigma that extends to the rest of society, especially if they aren’t capable of caring for themselves.

This forces many of them to beg on the streets or sell some of their personal belongings as a means of survival.

A Turkish charity in Mogadishu which is backed by Presidency of Religious Affairs, however, is hoping to change that by running a center for the disabled, where they can eat and rest.

"Around 300 people come twice a day for a meal," said Kaya, a volunteer at the center.

Before seeking refuge at the charity center, Abdigadir Mohammed Sha’ir, who is partially paralyzed, lived on the streets and often went hungry. He says he is grateful for the help the center provides

The charity is seeing to expand to other parts of the city so that it can help more of the needy.

Home
Email

Hiiraan Online