A tragic incident in Dadaab, Garissa County, has left a community in mourning after the death of Khadija Ali, a pregnant woman who died during a chaotic food distribution stampede.
The heartbreaking incident unfolded as Khadija, like many others, was at the distribution point to collect her family’s monthly rations. But what should have been a routine task turned into a nightmare. Overwhelmed by the surge of people, Khadija was knocked down in the chaos.
The frantic scene saw her being rushed to the hospital, unconscious and in critical condition. Doctors worked tirelessly, trying to save both her and her unborn child. However, despite their best efforts, Khadija was pronounced dead shortly after her arrival at the medical facility. The news devastated her husband, Hussein Kalmole, who recalled the moments before the tragic incident.
“She was a loving wife and mother, always taking care of our home and children,” Hussein said through tears. “She left to collect our rations, never to return. Now, we are left with our little ones, the youngest not even two years old. This loss is unbearable.”
Khadija’s death has sparked outrage and calls for justice, with many questioning the conditions at the food distribution site. Amina Udgoon Siyad, the Garissa women representative, voiced her deep concern, calling for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
“It is utterly unacceptable that someone seeking basic sustenance for their family should lose their life in the process,” she said firmly. “The situation could have been prevented with better planning and crowd control measures.”
Human rights groups have echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the tragedy was a direct result of neglect and poor management. Activist Abdikharim Shuri criticized authorities for failing to protect vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. “These are the very people who should be prioritized, not left at risk,” he said.
Fatuma Bathi, another human rights advocate, emphasized the need for greater accountability. She warned that without sustained pressure, incidents like Khadija’s might be swept under the rug, leaving countless other tragedies unreported. “How many more lives have been lost in silence?” she questioned.
The community and activists alike are calling for change, hoping Khadija’s death will prompt a reevaluation of food distribution protocols to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.
