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Five years ago, life changed for Murid Muktar Ali. At the age of 23, Muktar lost both his legs to a car explosion in Balcaad, Middle Shabelle. Becoming a bilateral amputee—both legs amputated—at such a young age can shatter hope. The future becomes a blur, and for Muktar, it was no exception.
“I did not want to lose my legs,” he recounts. “I was in and out of hospitals until I had no other option except amputation.”
For a year after his loss, Muktar was confined to a wheelchair, which he felt had its limitations. That was until he received physiotherapy and prosthetic legs, which reignited his spirit and gave him a reason to live again.
Fast forward to 2024, Muktar now runs a successful business in Bacad market, in the bustling heart of Mogadishu. In September, he got married and is proud of his home. With an unshakable determination, Muktar has embraced his new life.
“I see myself as the same or better than others,” he says.
In the market, Muktar is just another trader, indistinguishable from the next shop owner. Few are aware of his mobility challenges. Standing tall, he earns his living through hard work and has cultivated a loyal customer base.
“I choose to shop with him because he has quality goods—and is energetic,” says Abdirahman Gesey, one of his loyal customers.
Muktar regularly visits the physical rehabilitation center in Mogadishu, run by the Somali Red Crescent Society (SRCS). He attends routine checkups and fittings for his prosthetics.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) supports the centre in Mogadishu together with two other physical rehabilitation facilities that are also run by the SRCS – one located in Galkacyo and the other in Hargeisa.
“The rehabilitation center produces 20 to 30 prosthetics/orthotics per month and welcomes 35 physiotherapy patients daily, helping them regain their mobility, dignity, and smile,” said Antoine Grand, head of the ICRC in Somalia, during a recent visit to the centre in Mogadishu.
Since January this year, the three centers collectively achieved:
- 2,454 assistive devices in the form of artificial limbs and orthotics splints and braces have been provided.
- 249 wheelchairs have been provided.
- 289 children were registered for Club Foot treatment.
- 29 people in Mogadishu received vocational training
