Overview

Somaliland, a region of Somalia that lay in ruin from years of war, suffers some of the world’s highest rates of infant and maternal mortality. But 15 years ago, Edna Adan fulfilled a lifelong dream by building a nonprofit hospital and nursing school to address the health needs of women.

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Discussion Questions

What problems can you identify in this story? Are solutions presented?
In what way might this story be relevant in your community?
Adan set out to rebuild the health care system in Somaliland. Why do you think she started with a maternity hospital?
Adan also campaigns against FGM and for family planning. How has she had to adjust her tactics to be effective in Somaliland’s cultural context?

Writing Prompt (250 Words)

What long-term impact do you think the Edna Adan Hospital has on Somaliland’s society?