'We are now able to feed our families’: Greenhouse farming becomes a lifeline for families in Somalia

“Life became very difficult after the drought destroyed our ability to farm,” Rahmay recalls. “It was painful to see my children go hungry.” As the dry seasons continued, Rahmay’s family struggled to cope. With her husband bedridden and unable to work, the responsibility of supporting the household fell largely on her shoulders.

A new beginning through greenhouse farming

The turning point for Rahmay came when she, along with five other mothers in her community, formed the Iskashi Women Group, seeking a path back to farming. Their passion and determination caught the attention of SOS Children’s Villages, who introduced them to greenhouse farming—an innovative solution for communities ravaged by climate change.

“We were skeptical at first. It felt so new, and we doubted our ability to succeed,” Rahmay recalls.

However, with comprehensive training and hands-on guidance on greenhouse techniques, the women learned the essential skills for cultivating crops in a controlled environment, such as a greenhouse setting.

“Our mindset started to shift as we realised how we could grow our own food again with less water and effort,” she adds, her eyes shining with newfound determination.

Rahmay walks through rows of cucumbers during harvest on their farm in Jowhar, Somalia 

Nurturing fresh produce, nurturing families

The women began their journey by planting cucumbers, a local favorite. They toiled everyday, ensuring their crops received proper care and attention, and their efforts quickly bore fruit.

“In the first harvest, we gathered 200 kilograms of cucumbers, earning $50,” Rahmay explains, her voice brimming with pride. “It may not seem like much, but for us, it was a lifeline.”

With anticipation, they prepared for their second harvest, expecting to yield even more. “We’re now talking with local supermarkets and restaurants, which means we could sell our produce for better prices!” Rahmay’s excitement is palpable, envisioning a brighter future for her family and fellow group members.

Freshly harvested cucumbers from the greenhouse ready for market, Jowhar, Somalia

From waiting for rain to growing their own future

The income from their greenhouse has allowed Rahmay and her group to provide for their families and share the proceeds. “From our first earnings, we saved $10 and used the rest to buy food for our children. It was a huge relief during such hard times. We are now able to feed our families,” she says, highlighting the impact of their collective success.

As the chairlady of the Iskashi Women Group, Rahmay reflects on their journey with immense gratitude.

Rahmay shares her appreciation to the donor for returning them to farming at their greenhouse in Jowhar, Somalia

“Thank you to SOS Children’s Villages and the donor for believing in us and helping us reclaim our lives. We were waiting for the rains, but now we have a sustainable way to feed our families.”

Rahmay was among 80 vulnerable female-headed households supported by the project through smart farming initiatives in the districts of Afgoye, Bal’ad, and Jowhar in Somalia, thanks to the generous support of the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) and SOS Children’s Villages Norway.