In the heart of the Hawd region, nestled between the borders of Somaliland and Ethiopia, lies Baligubadle—a town fraught with challenges yet brimming with resilience. However, recent events have cast a shadow over its resilience, as the town’s primary lifeline, Baligubadle Hospital, grapples with an electricity crisis that threatens the very essence of its existence.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, a harrowing incident unfolded within the walls of Baligubadle Hospital, sending shockwaves throughout the community. In a scene reminiscent of a nightmare, the lights flickered and faded into darkness just as a woman was undergoing a delicate surgery. The sudden blackout plunged the delivery room into chaos, leaving medical staff scrambling to navigate through the darkness and uncertainty. Despite using their phones as makeshift lights, the situation remained critical until power was restored, six to ten minutes later.
This incident, though tragic, is not an isolated occurrence but rather a symptom of a larger systemic issue plaguing Baligubadle and its surrounding regions—the unstable electricity supply. For far too long, the residents of Baligubadle have endured frequent power outages, disrupting not only their daily lives but also the critical operations of essential facilities like the hospital.
Beyond the immediate healthcare implications, the electricity crisis has brought forth a cascade of sorrowful problems. In Baligubadle, students struggle to study in the dim glow of candles, businesses falter as their machinery grinds to a halt, and families endure sleepless nights in sweltering darkness, unable to power even the most basic appliances. The lack of reliable electricity permeates every aspect of life, compounding the hardships faced by the already marginalized community.
The repercussions of these power outages extend far beyond inconvenience, striking at the very heart of emergency healthcare delivery. In a healthcare setting where every moment is precious, interruptions in electricity supply can mean the difference between life and death. From surgical procedures to neonatal care, the reliance on electrical equipment is paramount, making consistent power supply an absolute necessity.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, concerted efforts are underway to address the emergency needs of Baligubadle. A comprehensive energy solution is being proposed, one that combines the reliability of a backup generator with the sustainability of a solar power system. Together, these components aim to fortify Baligubadle Hospital against the unpredictability of the electricity grid, ensuring uninterrupted access to lifesaving medical care.
Installing a backup generator will serve as a reliable safeguard during power outages, providing a seamless transition to emergency power when needed most. Coupled with a solar power system, harnessing the abundant sunlight of the region, the hospital will reduce its reliance on the grid while embracing a more sustainable energy future.
However, the success of these initiatives hinges not only on technological interventions but also on community engagement and capacity-building. Hospital staff will undergo rigorous training to operate and maintain the new energy infrastructure effectively, ensuring its longevity and efficiency in the long run.
As Baligubadle charts a course toward a brighter future, we must stand in solidarity with its residents and healthcare providers. The emergency needs of this community cannot be ignored, nor can the underlying challenges that perpetuate them. Investing in sustainable energy solutions and bolstering emergency preparedness can pave the way for a resilient and thriving Baligubadle—one where access to quality healthcare is not a luxury but a fundamental human right.
In the face of adversity, let us heed the call to action and empower Baligubadle to overcome the challenges that lie ahead. For in the darkness of uncertainty, there shines a beacon of hope—a community united in its quest for a better tomorrow.
Gulaid Yuusuf Idaan Senior lecturer, Researcher and Youth Activist in the Horn of Africa for the mobilization and empowerment of Young people in the Horn of Africa
Idaan54@gmail.com
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