In the heart of Somalia’s Gedo region, amid nomadic camps and settlements where mothers prioritize finding water for their animals and securing pasture, the story of vaccines remains largely unknow. For these women, conversations rarely go beyond daily survival. However, for Abdia Mohamed, a 25-year-old mother of four, the opportunity to engage in a healthcare initiative would transform her life and the future of her community.

Like many others in the Sarmanley nomadic camp in Dollow district, Abdia had never attended a health-focused gathering before. Her life had been focused on raising her children and ensuring her animals survived the harsh realities of the nomadic lifestyle. “The only gatherings I knew were weddings, where we came together to cook and celebrate. But this one was different,” Abdia recalls.

When Abdia was invited to a care group session organized by EMPHNET, she didn’t know what to expect. It was her first session of its kind, and it was there that she discovered the life-saving power of vaccines. The session’s engaging presentations and discussions introduced her to concepts she had never encountered before, such as immunizations to prevent diseases like polio, tuberculosis (TB), measles, and other vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). Until then, Abdia had relied on traditional healers like the respected “Oldman Abey” for health advice. However, the session revealed to her that modern medicine, particularly vaccines, could protect her children from the dangers of these diseases.

"I had never heard of vaccines before this session. I didn’t know they could prevent diseases," Abdia shares. "The way the information was presented made it clear that these diseases were a real threat to our children. I knew I had to take action.”

The care group model was specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of nomadic populations like Abdia. Many of the lead mothers were traditional birth attendants with experience in maternal and child health. They were selected for their strong interpersonal skills and trusted roles within the community. These lead mothers would serve as key change agents, spreading health information and encouraging their peers to adopt healthier practices. For Abdia, the key moment came during a session where simple props, like a stick representing a fully vaccinated child and another symbolizing an unvaccinated one, highlighted the stark contrast in health risks between the two.

“The message was clear: fully immunized children are far less likely to get sick, even during outbreaks. I knew I had to get my children vaccinated, no matter the cost," Abdia says. "If I had to sell my animals to ensure their vaccination, I would. Their health is my top priority.”

For nomadic communities in Gedo, accessing health services presents significant challenges. The absence of nearby health facilities, combined with extreme weather conditions that often force families to move in search of water and pasture, makes healthcare difficult to obtain. Despite these challenges, the care group model proved effective. Abdia, along with other mothers in the program, became strong advocates for immunization, spearheading social mobilization efforts during vaccination campaigns.

During the latest Supplemental Immunization Activities (SIA), Abdia and her fellow mothers played a vital role in reaching out to their communities. Their efforts helped deliver key messages about the importance of immunization to 262 nomadic households, including 849 mothers. As a result, vaccination rates among children under five saw a significant increase.

“I will continue to volunteer in mobilizing my community for immunization activities, especially during SIAs and Routine Immunization outreaches," Abdia affirms. "It’s a tough task because of our nomadic lifestyle, but it’s a calling. Every child, no matter where they live, deserves the chance to be vaccinated and stay healthy.”

Abdia now sees herself as a health champion for her community. As a lead mother in the care group model, she is dedicated to advocating for improved healthcare access and ensuring that no one, including nomadic populations, is left behind. Her passion for immunization has spread throughout her community, and she believes the care group model has the potential to transform lives by shifting attitudes toward vaccines.

“I want to be a hero in my community, someone who advocates for inclusive health services," Abdia says proudly. "The sessions have had a profound impact on me, and I am determined to show that this model can make a real difference for nomadic populations.”

Abdia’s dedication is a testament to the power of community-based health interventions and the potential for change, even in the most marginalized and underserved areas. "I am deeply grateful to EMPHNET for supporting this model," Abdia concludes. " The model is making a significant impact by changing attitudes, boosting immunization uptake, and delivering vital health services to nomadic communities who need them the most."

In conclusion, Abdia’s story highlights how targeted, community-driven efforts can transform healthcare access and improve outcomes for those who need it most. Through collaboration and commitment, EMPHNET is empowering local health leaders like Abdia to create lasting change in underserved communities.