Gudina Tumsa Foundation Catalyzes Change with Pioneering Healthcare and Livelihood Advocacy Project in Somali Region
By Yitbarek Tekalign
Jigjiga, August 14, 2024 — In a bold stride toward transforming lives in the Somali Region, the Gudina Tumsa Foundation (GTF) hosted an impactful orientation workshop for its newly launched Healthcare and Livelihood Improvement Advocacy Project (HaLIAPS). Held at the Hotel Lotus in Jigjiga City, the event gathered key sector representatives for an in-depth exploration of the project’s goals and strategies, marking a pivotal moment in GTF’s mission to uplift communities through enhanced healthcare services and sustainable livelihood improvements.
Supported by the generous funding of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, HaLIAPS is set to make a profound difference in health, nutrition, agriculture, financial inclusion, and women’s economic empowerment over the next two years. This initiative is particularly significant as it represents GTF’s first foray into integrating policy advocacy into its wide-ranging development efforts, in close collaboration with the Somali Regional State Government.
Mr. Iyobed Yonas, GTF’s Programs Director, highlighted the critical nature of this meeting, underscoring the importance of aligning stakeholders around the project’s ambitious objectives. “This orientation is not just an introduction but a call to action for all stakeholders to unite in support of a project that promises transformative outcomes,” he revealed. The workshop provided a platform for participants to delve into the project’s progress and engage in focused discussions aimed at refining implementation strategies.
Gratitude was a recurring theme as Mr. Iyobed expressed deep appreciation for the financial backing of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the unwavering support from the Somali Regional Government. He also recognized the instrumental role of Regional Advisors in fostering a collaborative environment between GTF and local government structures.
The workshop featured an enlightening presentation by Mr. Teshome Bula, the Project Manager, who laid out the project’s vision, methodologies, and anticipated impact. He underscored the importance of intertwining healthcare enhancements with sustainable livelihood strategies to ensure lasting benefits for the community. Mr. Teshome called for a united effort among local authorities, healthcare providers, and community members to realize the project’s full potential.
The event saw vibrant participation from government officials across various sectors, all of whom voiced strong support for the project. Their active involvement in discussions accentuated a shared commitment to maximizing the project’s impact. Mr. Iyobed, steering the conversation with passion and clarity, reiterated the power of collective action. “Together, we can ignite meaningful change,” he said, urging all stakeholders to work in concert to achieve the project’s ambitious goals and bring lasting benefits to the region’s people.
With the launch of HaLIAPS, GTF is poised to lead a significant transformation in the Somali Region. By harnessing the strength of advocacy and collaboration, the project aspires to build a healthier, more prosperous future for the community.
