In a heartwarming and inspiring ceremony held on Saturday evening 30th September at the Hamdaan Hotel in Hargeisa, a remarkable new chapter unfolded for the special needs community in Somaliland. The occasion marked the official opening of the Life Line Center, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support for special needs children. The grand inauguration was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Mr. Ahdihakim Sead Bustaale, the Deputy Education & Science Minister, who officiated the event.

The evening commenced with a sense of anticipation and excitement as Deputy Minister Bustaale congratulated Mrs. Sami M Ali, the Founder and CEO of the Life Line Center, for her unwavering commitment to the cause. He praised Samia for her vision and determination in establishing a center equipped with cutting-edge facilities that will undoubtedly make a significant difference in the lives of special needs children in the region. The Deputy Minister also pledged his continuous support for the center’s mission.

Samia M Ali, in her heartfelt address to the 150 guests present at the event and the 27,000 viewers worldwide who tuned in via social media, recounted her unexpected journey to Hargeisa. She shared how a family visit less than three months ago had serendipitously led to the realization of her dream—a dream she had initially intended to bring to fruition in Leicester but was now becoming a reality in Hargeisa. Samia expressed her gratitude to the Almighty for the courage and focus to pursue this project and credited her family for their unwavering support.

In her emotional speech, Samia acknowledged her son, whose 23rd birthday coincided with the center’s opening, as her inspiration and motivation. She praised her husband and family for their financial sacrifices, including personal savings and loans from friends, emphasizing that their sacrifices went beyond monetary contributions. The dedication of her family, even when it meant leading separate lives, was a testament to their commitment to this noble endeavor.

With tears of joy in her eyes, Samia prayed that the Life Line Center would make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of the children it would serve. She expressed her heartfelt thanks to everyone who had supported the project, in particular Abdirashid Duale, the CEO of Dahahshiil Group Companies, the young talented Samia M Roble and her team, and all those who made this project a reality; no amount of words can truly reflect the depth of appreciation I hold for your kindness and generosity; Allah Bless You All.

Other notable speakers at the event included Dr. Yakub, the Director of the Mental Health Department at the Ministry of Health, Mr. Jama A Hassan, the Director of the Planning Department at the Ministry of Education and Science, and Dr. Jama M Jamac, the Director and Founder of the Hargeisa Cultural Center. Each speaker echoed the sentiment that the Life Line Center was a much-needed addition to Hargeisa’s resources for special needs children, and they commended Samia for her dedication and vision.

The event was expertly chaired by Rooble Mohamed, a Communication Specialist, who shared with the audience recorded videos showcasing the Life Line Center’s facilities and services. These videos provided a glimpse into the high-quality care and support that the center would offer to special needs children in Hargeisa.

The opening of the Life Line Center represents a significant milestone in the journey towards creating a more inclusive and compassionate society in Somaliland. With its modern facilities and dedicated team, this center is poised to make a lasting and positive impact on the lives of special needs children and their families, offering hope, support, and a brighter future. Samia M Ali’s vision and dedication have truly created a beacon of hope for a more inclusive tomorrow.

Source: Hiiraan