Huriyo Ahmed making a difference in maternal and newborn Health at Eldheere Health Centre

For Huriyo Ahmed Warsame, midwifery is more than a profession, it is a calling. The 25-year-old has spent the past two years supporting mothers at Eldheere Health Centre, helping families welcome new life safely and with dignity. Born in Dhusamareb and now living in Eldheree, Huriyo brings her skills and compassion to her own community, where she is both a trusted health worker and a role model for young women.

One of the mothers she supported is Farhiyo, who was anxious about giving birth. “I used to be scared and had to travel far to get care,” Farhiyo recalls. “But Huriyo made me feel calm and confident. She explained everything and stayed with me throughout the delivery.” Today, Farhiyo’s baby is healthy and doing well, a true reflection of the midwife’s care.

Another mother, Hodan, who recently visited the health facility for postnatal care with her third child, shares her experience: “Coming to Eldhere Health Centre has changed everything for my family. The health care workers, especially Huriyo, take time to listen and explain everything. They make sure our babies are vaccinated and teach us how to care for them properly. I feel safe knowing they are here for us.”

The success of the health facility is not only due to the committed staff; it is deeply rooted in community ownership. The people of Eldhere built the health facility themselves, contributing labor, resources, and ongoing support. Today, local health committees and community leaders manage the facility, ensuring services meet the needs of families like Farhiyo and Hodan.

Huriyo emphasizes the importance of this community involvement. “The people here care about the centre as much as we do. They maintain it, guide decisions, and make sure it works for everyone. That motivates me to give my best every day,” she says.

UNICEF, working with the Galmudug Ministry of Health through the Better Lives Programme funded by the UK Government, has strengthened the medical facility while keeping local ownership at the core. The support includes operational assistance, essential supplies, and capacity building for health workers to deliver key services such as immunization, basic emergency obstetric care, and integrated management of childhood illnesses. The programme has also enhanced the facility’s operations by providing a shaded waiting area for patients, rehabilitating four sanitation facilities, and equipping the centre with electronic health record systems.

For mothers like Farhiyo and midwives like Huriyo, Eldhere Health Centre is more than just a building, it is a symbol of collaboration and hope. Here, community leadership and professional care come together every day to improve the lives of families.