From Illiteracy to Empowerment: The Transformative Journey of Jamco Sahal Muluax

In the remote pastoralist community of Berdumi Village in Cherti Woreda, Somali Region, where education is a distant dream for many, one woman’s story shines as a beacon of resilience and transformation. At just 27 years old, Jamco Sahal Muluax, a mother of four, embodies the power of education and determination to rewrite life’s narrative.

A Life of Challenges

Born and raised in an area affected by limited access to education and essential services, Jamco’s childhood was shaped by societal norms that included early marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM). However, she defied these norms by making the bold decision to delay marriage until she was 18, a choice that marked the beginning of her journey toward self-determination.

Her move to Abdi Allero Village, home to just 250 residents, brought new challenges. In a place with scarce resources, she dedicated herself to her family, tirelessly managing a household while raising her young children. Yet, even in the face of adversity, she held on to her dreams.

In 2022, an opportunity arose that would forever change Jamco’s life. The project leaded by Medicus Mundi Gipuzkoa in collaboration with Pastoralist Concern and funded by Spanish Cooperation, sought to empower women in the Somali Region. By addressing high illiteracy rates among women and providing adult literacy classes alongside skills training, the project aimed to transform lives in underserved communities.

Recognizing the potential of this initiative, Jamco enrolled in the program. Even while pregnant and caring for her infant, she attended classes with unmatched enthusiasm, becoming a source of inspiration for her peers and instructors alike.

A New Chapter

Through the project, Jamco acquired vital skills in reading, writing, and basic arithmetic within a year. These newfound abilities have revolutionized her life. Once-daunting tasks—such as saving contacts on her phone and managing daily finances—are now second nature. With her literacy skills, she actively contributes to her family’s income by co-managing a small business and farm alongside her husband.

Her personal growth has also elevated her role within the household, enabling her to make meaningful contributions to family decision-making. But her journey doesn’t end there.

 “I am inspired to continue my studies further,” Jamco shares, her passion for education deeply intertwined with her role as a mother. She is determined to break the cycle of illiteracy within her family, setting an empowering example for her children and inspiring them to pursue their own dreams.

Her transformation exemplifies the profound impact that education and empowerment initiatives can have, not just for individuals but for entire communities. Through the project, women like Jamco are unlocking their potential, contributing to community development, and creating a brighter future for generations to come.

A Testament to Empowerment

Jamco’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of education. It serves as a call to action, urging continued support for projects like this one, which are making a lasting difference in underserved regions like Abdi Allero.

Her story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to dream, learn, and inspire change. As Jamco’s life flourishes, so does her community, one empowered individual at a time.