In his twilight years, Mohamed Mohamud knows firsthand that no matter how capable or self-sufficient one is in youth, the later years can bring unexpected struggles. Born in 1939 in Kambi Garba, Isiolo County, he grew up in a pastoralist family, learning the ways of livestock herding from an early age. Schooling ended in Class 4, replaced by long days tending to his father’s animals.Determined to carve out a better life, Mohamed entered the livestock trade in his twenties, buying and selling cows and goats. His sharp business mind allowed him to navigate the markets, and for years, he stood on firm ground. Marriage, family, and work took him across different places—Kericho, Tanzania, and back home to Isiolo. In 1966, he secured a stable government job as a veterinary assistant, later transitioning to a sales collector role. He built a home, supported his family, and for decades, life seemed steady.But stability is never guaranteed. Retirement in 1994 marked the beginning of a slow, difficult decline. The little pension he received was barely enough, and as the years passed, financial security slipped through his fingers. Once the provider, Mohamed now found himself struggling to meet even his most basic needs. His family, once reliant on him, could no longer support him in return.It was during these uncertain years that he encountered Mama Ibado Charity. Recognizing his struggles, they welcomed him into their feeding and healthcare programs, ensuring he had food and medical support.Today, Mohamed reflects on his journey with a mix of gratitude and wisdom. Life had once given him strength, stability, and purpose—but it also reminded him that no one is immune to hardship in old age. His story is a powerful testament to the unpredictability of life
