 Day 6 - University
of Amoud Visited University of Amoud, which is about 5
kilometres outside town and appears remote to me. It looks like we
are on planet Mars..
They have now built a new hospital here, which
is funded by Somali diaspora and other donations. The hospital is
modern, clean and equipped but still not open officially.
There is a dedicated room for mental health clinics. Future plans
include a small mental health unit for about 15 patients within the
hospital grounds. It will provide short term care -
around one week for acute stabilisation - and will
essentially be for people who are tied-
up at home. The area is remote but probably
Boroma town will expand to stretch this far.
Boroma has its British history, as the British
were colonisers of Somaliland. The British laid a first
stone in the University in 1952. However, they were not allowed to
live in Boroma town or even be buried in the area.
My colleagues delight in the varied bird life
around here.
 Graduation
celebration Friday eveningAll seven
students, three resits and one nurse graduate. We listen to
speeches from local elders, clan leaders, and many others. I
estimate over 12 speeches. The new graduates are dressed up
and with their proud families. There's a flood of cameras
and photographs.
Edna Aden, one of Somaliland’s most famous
residents, gives a speech. She has sponsored a few of the
students through medical school here in Amoud University. Edna is
head of the Edna Aden Maternity Hospital in Hargeisa. She gives a
stirring, tear-filled speech. The emotion is clear and strong, even
though I don’t understand Somali language.
Edna is one of the big figures in Somaliland
who supports women’s rights and is against the female genital
circumcision which is endemic in the region. She has done a huge
amount for the people of Somaliland through her maternity hospital
and other activities. It is always a pleasure to meet such an
inspirational figure.
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