Talaso Roba's Resilience Amidst Hardship

For Talaso Roba, a 38-year-old mother of four in Forole village, the last few years have been especially challenging. The severe drought decimated their herds, with the family losing over 300 goats and sheep, 89 cows, and 26 camels. Despite these hardships, Talaso remains focused on her children's future and education.

The Impact of Drought

"We used to have large herds," Talaso recalls, her voice steady despite the pain of the memory. "The drought came and didn't leave. We watched our animals die one by one. It was heartbreaking."

The loss of livestock meant more than just economic hardship for Talaso's family. In pastoralist communities, livestock represents wealth, security, and cultural identity. The drought stripped away not just their livelihood but also their traditional way of life.

Daily Struggles

Today, Talaso walks several kilometers each day to fetch water for her family. The yellow jerrycan on her back has become a symbol of her daily struggle and determination. "Water is life," she says simply. "Without it, we cannot survive."

The nearest water source is often dry, forcing Talaso and other women in the village to travel even further. The journey is exhausting, especially under the harsh sun, but it's a necessity she faces without complaint.

Hope Through Education

Despite the hardships, Talaso remains determined to provide her children with education. "I want my children to have opportunities I never had," she explains. "Education is the key to a better future."

She ensures all four of her children attend school regularly, even when resources are scarce. "Sometimes we go without meals, but my children must go to school," Talaso insists. "Knowledge is something no drought can take away."

Community Support

Talaso is grateful for the support from development partners working in the region. "The assistance we receive helps us survive," she acknowledges. "But we need long-term solutions – better water infrastructure, support for alternative livelihoods, and help rebuilding our herds."

Resilience and Determination

Talaso's story is one of remarkable resilience. Despite losing almost everything to the drought, she continues to fight for her family's survival and her children's future. Her determination represents the strength of countless women in pastoralist communities who face similar challenges.

"We are strong," Talaso says with quiet confidence. "We have survived droughts before, and we will survive this one. For our children, we must keep going."

As the sun sets over the arid landscape of Forole, Talaso prepares for another day of challenges. But in her eyes, there's an unmistakable spark of hope – hope for rain, hope for recovery, and hope for a better future for her children.