Mudug youth combat drought with modern farming techniques

 In Galdogob, Mudug, young people are using modern farming techniques to lift their families out of poverty and combat the devastating effects of drought. These youths have found steady employment through skills learned in greenhouse agriculture and irrigation systems, providing much-needed financial relief to their drought-stricken families.

Abdifatah Amin Khalif is one of the young workers who is transforming his life through modern farming. He earns $30 a day working on two farms, allowing him to send $100 to $200 a month to his family in rural Mudug, who lost most of their livestock to the drought.

"I can now provide for my family's needs. In the past, I had to rely on others for help, but now I'm self-sufficient," Abdifatah said.

His journey began in February 2024, when drought decimated his family's livestock, leaving them with only 30 surviving goats. Unable to continue supporting his family, Abdifatah moved to Galdogob in search of work. After weeks of homelessness and hunger, he found shelter with relatives and eventually secured a low-paying job on a farm. His fortunes changed when a local engineer offered him free training in advanced irrigation systems, a skill that has since made Abdifatah financially independent.

Like Abdifatah, Adan Abdi Deerow also turned his life around with modern farming techniques. Once a farm labourer earning just $5 a day, Adan now installs irrigation systems for clients, making between $15 and $20 daily. He now earns $450 a month, sending $150 to his family in Baidoa and supporting his younger brothers' education.

"My life has completely changed. I used to rely on friends when work dried up, but now I can support myself and even help others," Aadan said.

Abdirisaq Ibrahim Mohamud, a Zamzam University engineering graduate, has been instrumental in this transformation. Recognizing the need for skilled agricultural workers, Abdirisaq began offering free training in modern farming techniques to local youth in Galdogob. Over the past two years, his training has empowered numerous young people to become self-sufficient and contribute to their families' well-being.

"The people we've trained leave with valuable skills that allow them to find employment or create their own opportunities, contributing to Somalia's agricultural sector," Abdirisaq said.

The rise of modern farms and greenhouses in Galdogob is providing job opportunities for young people and skilled workers, offering a potential lifeline to families devastated by drought. Experts believe these new farming techniques could boost the region's agricultural productivity, helping alleviate the economic hardships caused by recurring droughts.

The success of Abdifatah, Aadan, and others underscores the importance of modern farming skills in building resilience for Somali families in the face of increasingly harsh climate conditions.