Khadija Diriye’s journey is a story of profound resilience and strength in the face of overwhelming adversity. In September 2023, Khadija, her husband, and their nine children were displaced from the rural areas of Hiraan due to a severe drought. Seeking refuge and a chance to rebuild their lives, they moved to Beletweyne. However, their hopes were dashed when devastating floods struck Beletweyne in early November 2023, forcing them to flee once again. Tragically, during the floods, Khadija lost her youngest son.
Determined to find stability, Khadija and her family finally settled in the Aaran IDP camp in Hodan Banadir, Mogadishu. Amidst the challenges of displacement and personal loss, Khadija encountered the Kaafia Plus project, a livelihood initiative implemented by Save Somali Women and Children (SSWC) and funded by USAID through CRS.
Khadija enrolled in the tailoring training provided by the project. Despite the emotional and physical toll of her experiences, she approached the training with remarkable dedication and hope. The program not only offered her a chance to learn valuable skills but also provided a much-needed sense of purpose and direction.

Figure 1:Khadija in the training hall practicing the lessons she learnt.
Upon completing the training, Khadija received a start-up kit that included a sewing machine, 11 rolls of fabric, three pairs of scissors, and four rolls of thread. With these resources, she began her journey towards economic independence. Initially, she started by mending clothes for her fellow camp residents, gradually building a clientele that appreciated her growing expertise.

Figure 2:with a beaming face Khadija displays some of her work.
The income from her tailoring business soon became a vital source of support for her family. Khadija’s newfound skills enabled her to contribute significantly to their livelihood, ensuring that her children had food, clothing, and access to education. The financial stability also allowed her to begin healing from the trauma of her displacements and the loss of her son.
Khadija’s tailoring business thrived as she continued to hone her skills and expand her offerings. Her reputation for quality and reliability spread beyond the camp, attracting customers from nearby communities. The success of her business not only uplifted her family but also inspired other women in the camp, many of whom she began mentoring.

Figure 3: Khadija(at the front with a light blue headscarf) Following speeches during her graduation.
Khadija Diriye’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of the Kaafia Plus project. With the support of SSWC and the funding from USAID through CRS, Khadija transformed her life from one of despair and displacement to one of hope and empowerment. Her journey highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of targeted vocational training in fostering economic independence and community resilience.