Abu's Journey: A Story of Resilience

In the quiet coastal town of Pemba, where the rhythmic sounds of the ocean meet the gentle hum of daily life, Abu, a 32-year-old fisherman, stands as a testament to the resilience that can emerge from the most challenging circumstances. 

Abu's story begins in the tumultuous north, where violence forced him to flee his home, leaving behind echoes of explosions and the haunting memory of a hurried departure.

Arriving in Pemba, Abu faced the challenge of finding employment, compounded by the additional obstacle of living with a disability. His journey took a different turn when IOM supported him in finding an opportunity to work with the local fishing association. 

IOM donated fridges to the fishing association as well, enhancing their capacity to preserve and sell their catch. This tangible support not only addressed immediate humanitarian needs but laid the foundation for a durable solution - a bridge from crisis response to long-term empowerment. Abu, who had struggled to find his place in a world that seemed indifferent to his challenges, found renewed purpose.  

For the first time in his life, Abu received a wheelchair, donated by IOM, breaking down some physical barriers that once confined him. "At first, my arms would hurt, but with time I think my arms got stronger. I was happy to have the wheelchair. On the parts with a lot of sand, it is harder... but often when I get stuck, the kids from the neighborhood help me out," he shares with a smile. 

In the realm of humanitarian efforts, the spotlight often falls on the most vulnerable, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are no exception. Recognizing the unique challenges they face during emergencies, IOM is pioneering a comprehensive approach to fortify the protection and inclusivity of PwDs in their emergency response initiatives. The aim is to dismantle the barriers that hinder their access to crucial protection and assistance, ensuring that their participation in society is not just equal but also safe and meaningful. Collaborating with government social services and external partners, IOM strives to bridge the accessibility gap. One notable stride involves providing essential assistive medical devices like wheelchairs and crutches, empowering PwDs with the tools they need for mobility and independence. Beyond immediate aid, IOM's multi-sectorial strategy extends its supportive arm to include PwDs in livelihood activities, opening doors to opportunities that transcend disability. It's a narrative where every individual, regardless of ability, is not merely a recipient of aid but an active participant in rebuilding and shaping their future. 

Now, Abu has found a new home in the Quirimbas Islands, where the cost of living is more manageable.  His journey from displacement to self-sufficiency embodies the essence of the nexus - a transition from humanitarian aid to lasting solutions, grounded in the principles of inclusion and empowerment. 

Abu's story resonates not just as an individual triumph but as a path toward a more compassionate and inclusive society. Abu's journey inspires us to build bridges that span beyond immediate relief, fostering enduring solutions that allow individuals to rewrite their narratives and reclaim their destinies. 

This intervention has been possible thanks to the support of USAID's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), European Commission Humanitarian Aid (ECHO), the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the Embassy of Ireland in Mozambique, the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO) and the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Maputo.

To read the story in Portuguese, click here.