As the sun rise over the streets of Jigjiga, the Somali region’s capital, casting a warm glow over the vibrant city, the maternity department of Karamara Hospital, buzzes with activity. Mothers come and go, each with a unique story to share; their laughter and tears filling the air with a sense of hope and joy. The hospital is one of the partners of UNFPA, recieveing technical and material support over the years. At the heart of it, is Abeba Birhanu, a midwife whose compassion had earned her a reputation as a pillar of strength and support for the women in her care. Aged 46 and with 27 years of experience at the hospital, of which 20 were spent delivering babies, Abeba is a seasoned professional known for her expertise, empathy, and commitment to mothers. 

She had seen it all–the joy of new life entering the world, the pain of loss and heartache, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. One such mother who had been cared for by Abeba was Halima, a young woman who had recently given birth to a beautiful baby boy at the hospital. Leading up to the birth of her child, Halima was terrified, but as soon as she met Abeba, her worries melted away. Abeba's smile and reassuring presence had put her at ease, and she knew she was in capable hands. "I felt safe and cared for when I knew Sister Abeba was by my side," Halima would often say, her voice tinged with gratitude. "Her experience and kindness made all the difference during one of the most important moments of my life."

 Abeba's dedication to her patients extends beyond medical care. She is a source of comfort and guidance for the mothers under her watch, offering words of encouragement and support during labor and delivery. Her calm demeanor and steady hands are a source of reassurance for the women in the maternity ward, knowing that they were under the care of a true professional who had seen it all. 

The medical director of the hospital, Dr. Mohammed Abdullahi, had witnessed firsthand the impact of Abeba's dedication.  "Sister Abeba is a true asset to our hospital and the mothers we serve," Dr. Mohammed remarked. "Her expertise and compassion are the foundation of our maternity ward, and we support her and her team in their vital work." 

For mothers like Halima, whose lives had been touched by Abeba's care and kindness, she remain a beacon of hope and comfort .

"In this maternity ward, I understand that I am more than a midwife— for mothers entrusting their precious moments to me I must be a source of hope and reassurance. Each birth echoes love, resilience, & unwavering dedication to bring new life into this world." Abeba says. 

For Karmara Hospital maternity ward community, Abeba is a symbol of strength and compassion, surrounded by the sounds of new life entering the world. She knows that she is exactly where she is meant to be—caring for the mothers and babies with all her heart and soul.