Inspiring Women in Bandarbeyla: The Story of Buho Mohamed

Buho Mohamed, a resident of Bandarbeyla district in Puntland, has become a shining example of empowerment and positive change in her community. With a family of seven to support, she embarked on a journey of change that began with One Earth Future’s Secure Fisheries Program. Buho's incredible success story highlights the impact of this program on her life and the lives of those around her. 

"I work as a net-making businesswoman. I started this work after I got training from the Secure Fisheries Program. The training was very useful to us, and it helped us develop our skills related to the sea and fishing." These skills, Buho said, became a catalyst for change in the lives of the women in her community. 

Before the training, fishing in Bandarbeyla was often hindered by weak and damaged nets. "Fishers used to take the net for fishing, but the nets were not strong enough, hence they would come back with damaged or ripped nets,” she said. “At that time, as women, we did not have enough skill to make better nets for the fishers. Only men used to fix the nets, but they were always at the sea for fishing. This would hinder the productivity of the fishing." 

However, after the training, Buho and her fellow trainees gained the skills to craft and repair nets effectively. She proudly stated, "I am now able to buy my own thread and fix the nets very well. When my husband, who is a fisher, comes back, he can exchange the torn used nets with the fixed ones and proceed with his fishing activities without any delays." This change in net quality had a direct impact on the fishing industry in Bandarbeyla. Buho noted, "Now we have seen positive changes in our lives, and the amount of fish caught has improved." 

Buho's journey didn't stop with repairing nets for her husband. She also recognized a business opportunity for her community. "Apart from stitching and fixing the nets for my husband's use, I also use this skill to help people in my community, charging $30 per net. This is my business now, and it has become a new source of income for my family," Buho said proudly. 

The changes weren't limited to Buho's family alone; they extended to her family and to the entire community. Buho highlighted the new sense of teamwork between her and her husband, saying, "There is hope after learning this skill. My husband and I support each other. Before, he would have to wait for at least ten days for the net to be fixed before going back for fishing. Now, I do that work in fewer days, and there is no delay in his fishing schedule." 

Buho's journey represents a broader change. The empowerment of women like her has led to more inclusive and prosperous communities. Women now have the skills to contribute to their families' well-being and be self-reliant. She explained, "My life has improved because I am independent, and I have my own income. Previously, we depended on men for income to provide for the family. But now, both men and women in our community are working." The Secure Fisheries Program played a pivotal role in this change. Buho expressed her gratitude, saying, "Thanks to the Secure Fisheries Program of One Earth Future for the opportunity and capacity building they gave us."