Celebrating our Humanitarian Heroes

“Seeing a woman’s dignity restored after a fistula surgery is my delight,” proclaims Nimco. “I find joy in supporting and encouraging women who have lost hope and remind them that their lives can be restored to normal.” Nimco is a Somali Gender Officer based in Somaliland, a semi-autonomous region of Somalia.

Jeremiah Kibanya, World Visions’ Faith & Development Advisor, says bringing hope to people who have gone through so much suffering that can kill their hope for tomorrow makes his work rewarding. “I find fulfillment in reminding the people we serve that they still have something significant to contribute to the world,” says Jeremiah.

These are the voices of World Vision staff who work passionately and diligently with the communities in Somalia, a fragile environment where humanitarian workers continue to face conflict, displacements, natural disasters and other risks. With millions of Somalis dependent on aid agencies for their survival, aid workers like Nimco and Jeremiah continue to bring hope for a better tomorrow and resilience to affected children and families.

The security situation in Somalia increases risks of kidnappings, assault and even death of humanitarian workers. Armed people have carried out attacks against humanitarian agencies killing and/or kidnapping their staff. Since 1997, over 100 humanitarian workers have been kidnapped in Somalia, while over 262 have been killed or wounded.

“Despite these risks, we have dedicated staff who are committed to ensuring that Somali Children enjoy good health, are educated, experience holistic formations, and are protected and cared for.,” says Francois Batalinganya, WV Somalia Country Director.

“Working to bring peace and relief under some very difficult conditions is rewarding work and enables us as humans beings to support each other, to protect the vulnerable, to contribute to peace and stability, and to build the resilience of those whom we work with.” adds Francois.