A Journey to Dignity: The Transformative Story of Barwaaqo Northern Extension

For families like Fatima's, life had been a relentless struggle. Displaced from their homes in regions like Bay, Bakool, and the Jubbas due to insecurity, droughts, and floods, they arrived in Baidoa seeking safety. Yet, even in this refuge, uncertainty loomed. They settled wherever they could find space, constantly at risk of eviction and exposed to the harsh realities of life in informal camps. 

Fatima recalls her time in Wadajir Camp with a heavy heart. “During the rainy season, our shelter would flood, and we had nowhere to turn. Life was exhausting and hopeless.”

The turning point came with the launch of the Barwaaqo Northern Extension project, a bold initiative led by the Baidoa municipality and the Government of Southwest State, in collaboration with IOM Somalia, NRC and other stakeholders. With funding support provided by the World Bank, the municipality allocated 15 square kilometers of land and issued title deeds to displaced families, ensuring they had not just a place to live, but also legal recognition and security.

“We made sure the families were part of the process,” said Abdikadir Abdinur Mohamed, Assistant to the Mayor of Baidoa. “We listened to their concerns and ensured they were comfortable with the move. It wasn’t just about finding land; it was about finding a home.” 

The project identified 1,150 households from 22 camps that were particularly vulnerable to eviction and environmental risks. Using IOM’s Biometric Registration and Verification (BRaVE) app, families were carefully registered to ensure the most vulnerable, such as the elderly and those with disabilities, were prioritized. These individuals were provided with permanent concrete shelters built near essential services like water kiosks, which were designed to support their unique needs.

For Fatima and her family, the change has been life-altering. “Now, I have a house that keeps my family safe. When it rains, we stay dry. I can’t describe the relief I feel knowing we finally have a place to call our own.” 

Barwaaqo Northern Extension is about more than just housing — it represents a new beginning. The community now has access to clean water through fully operational boreholes funded by the World Bank, eliminating the need for long, tiring journeys to fetch water. These small but significant changes have transformed daily life for residents. 

“The people who were once seen as outsiders are now fully part of the community,” said Abdikadir. “They have the same rights as everyone else and are thriving. This project has given them stability, dignity, and a chance to rebuild their lives.”

This transformation was made possible by the collaborative efforts of local authorities, international organizations, and development partners. By addressing immediate humanitarian needs while promoting long-term integration, Barwaaqo Northern Extension serves as a model for inclusive and sustainable urban planning. 

“Barwaaqo Northern Extension stands as a reminder of what we can achieve when we work together,” said Abdinur Wandan, an IOM Somalia staff member. “It’s not just about solving problems—it’s about creating opportunities and restoring hope.” 

Fatima and others who now call Barwaaqo Northern Extension home are looking at the start of a brighter future. 

“This is more than a house,” Fatima says softly. “This is my home. And for the first time in a long time, I feel safe.”