GAROWE (KAAB TV) – In a country ravaged by food insecurity, where millions live in displacement camps due to drought, many Somalis still favor imported foods over locally grown staples like maize, grains, and beans.
However, one entrepreneur has seen a unique opportunity to address this paradox while also supporting his community.
Mustafe Isaq Aden, originally from Southwest Somalia, migrated to Puntland, a relatively stable region in the north. Upon arrival, he established a humble food kiosk offering affordable hot meals made from locally sourced maize, wheat, and beans, catering to low-income residents.
“For me, it was a job opportunity I never imagined,” Mustafe told Kaab TV. “But for many locals, it’s a chance to enjoy affordable, nutritious meals. I saw that people were neglecting local food, opting instead for imported products. That’s why I started this business.”
Mustafe’s initiative is more than just a way to make a living. It aligns with a growing movement among local doctors advising their patients to switch to healthier, locally sourced diets.
“I’ve been running this kiosk for a year now,” Mustafe added, as he explained how demand for his meals has grown. He now serves a diverse range of clients, including daily orders from office workers in the area, delivering meals directly to their workplaces.
Somalia has been experiencing severe droughts, unpredictable rainfall, and rising temperatures, culminating in the country’s longest drought on record from 2020 to 2023.
The resulting food insecurity has led to widespread crop failures, water shortages, and livestock deaths. Aid organizations have struggled to keep up with the demand due to funding shortfalls and ongoing conflict, leaving many communities without sufficient support.
Despite these challenges, Mustafe has been able to provide for his family—his wife and five children—paying rent and covering their food expenses, thanks to his growing customer base and the relative peace in Puntland.
Looking to the future, Mustafe has bigger ambitions. “I plan to expand this kiosk into a larger business, and I would welcome others to join me,” he said, optimistic about the potential for peace and better rainfall, which would ensure a steady supply of grains for his venture.
In a country struggling with hunger, Mustafe Isaq Aden’s food kiosk is more than just a business; it’s a beacon of resilience and community strength, offering a sustainable solution to both the local economy and the dire need for accessible, nutritious food.
—