Jowhar, Somalia – What began as a minor thorn prick while tending his livestock nearly cost 82-year-old Muse Mohamed Ali his life. Today, after receiving free medical care at the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Level One hospital at Jowhar Airfield, the elderly herder is walking again and looking forward to reuniting with his family.
Muse sustained the injury while herding his animals in Daa’ifo village in Middle Shabelle region during the rainy season. Believing it was a minor wound, he initially relied on traditional remedies. Instead of healing, the wound became severely infected, leaving him bedridden and eventually unconscious.
“I had no money to pay for treatment. With nowhere else to turn, I came to AUSSOM hospital where I received free medical care and the treatment I desperately needed,” Muse recalled.
Upon arrival at the hospital, doctors found that the infection had spread extensively and required urgent intervention.
Captain Doctor Fabrice Nishimwe, the Medical Officer at AUSSOM Level One hospital, said the patient was admitted in a critical condition with a severely infected wound containing necrotic tissue.
“When the patient arrived, he required immediate medical attention. We admitted him, removed the dead tissue through surgical debridement, and provided continuous wound care and treatment. Without prompt medical intervention, he could have developed life-threatening complications such as sepsis or even lost his limb,” Dr. Nishimwe explained.
In the weeks that followed, the medical team closely monitored Muse’s recovery. The infection gradually subsided, the pain disappeared and he regained his strength.
“When I arrived at the AUSSOM hospital, I couldn’t walk and had to be supported by others. Thanks to the skilled doctors and medical staff, I have recovered significantly and can now walk on my own again,” Muse said with a smile.
The experience has left a lasting impression on the elderly herder.
“The doctors and the medical staff welcomed me with kindness and treated me with exceptional care. They worked tirelessly to help me recover, and I am deeply grateful for their compassion and professionalism. Without this treatment, I believe I might not have survived,” he said.
After a month and half of treatment, Muse was discharged from hospital, walking independently and ready to return to his village.
“Now that I have regained my health, I look forward to returning home, reuniting with my family and resuming my normal daily activities. I feel as though I have been given my life back,” said Muse.
For Dr. Nishimwe, stories like Muse’s highlight the importance of providing healthcare to vulnerable communities.
“Seeing patients recover and regain hope is one of the most rewarding aspects of our mission. Providing free medical care not only saves lives but also strengthens the bond between AUSSOM and the communities we are here to support,” said Dr. Nishimwe.
Community elder Muse Ahmed, 75, from Daa’ifo village, praised the AUSSOM Burundian medical team for providing lifesaving treatment to vulnerable residents.
“The free medical services offered by the Burundian doctors have saved many lives. We sincerely appreciate their dedication and humanitarian support to our community,” said Ahmed.
AUSSOM’s medical outreach continues to provide critical healthcare services to vulnerable communities across Somalia, particularly for those who have limited access to medical facilities. Muse Mohamed Ali’s recovery is a testament to the life-saving impact of timely medical intervention and the mission’s commitment to improving the well-being of the communities it serves.
