Hello Amal! Can you tell us about you?
My name is Amal Ibrahim. I was born and raised in Gode City, Somali Region in Ethiopia. There, I completed my primary and secondary education. Later I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Nutrition and a Master’s degree in Public Health from Jijiga University. Before joining VSF-Suisse, I worked as a lecturer at Gode Hospital and for various other organisations.
What motivated you to join VSF-Suisse?
I joined VSF-Suisse in 2024 as a Gender and One Health officer. I was particularly attracted by the fact that gender equality is not viewed in isolation but is firmly embedded in the One Health approach. This gives me the opportunity to combine my expertise from various fields and support the community in a holistic way.
What are the biggest challenges in your daily work?
What are the biggest challenges in your daily work?
At the beginning, it was not easy to raise awareness among the population about issues such as One Health, gender equality and equal opportunities. Traditional role models are deeply rooted, and it took time to explain how closely these areas are interlinked.
Additionally, the current challenging international financial situation adds pressure to our work.
Can you share an outstanding achievement of which you are particularly proud while working with VSF-Suisse?
I am particularly proud of my contribution to a growth-oriented and gender-responsive health project, especially since this was the first VSF-Suisse project in the Shebelle zone, Somali region.
I played a key role in implementing integrated animal health, women’s health and environmental measures. My major contribution to the project was the design and development of the One Health unit plan and a nursery center in the Kabbala region.
I participated in the budget analysis, interviews, dialogue sessions and surveys to identify the challenges women face in adapting environmental and health practices. This approach gathers local perspectives and ensures community voices. Now, the women generate their own income.
The training sessions for partner organisations and the community are also among the most rewarding moments for me because they show how knowledge can have an impact.
How would you describe your VSF-Suisse team in Ethiopia?
Together with the VSF team in Addis Ababa and at the Gode field office, we work passionately and flexibly. We help each other and we work together to be a bridge between the NGO and the community. I feel that VSF-Suisse takes me seriously and values me.
What is your professional dream for the future?
I would like to become even more involved in promoting the rights of women and pastoralists and expand my knowledge in areas such as social marketing, the environment and economic development.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
I read the Quran and spend time with my family, especially my mother. I also love talking to older people. They give me new perspectives and inspire me greatly.
And finally, what is your favorite food?
Definitely Somali rice with meat, fresh vegetables and bananas.