10 camels for a forearm

This week, I was once again on the road with the Mobile Clinic. During our stay in one of the villages, there was a conflict between two family members, one of whom was also in possession of a weapon, which is why we were on the verge of leaving the village and returning to Caynaba. The conflict between the two cousins had caused the entire village to be in uproar. Fortunately, one of the police officers who accompanied us had already called his station, which led to the police arriving and taking the two opponents to the police station.

Me against my brother. My brother and I against the family. My family and I against the clan. My clan and I against my country. My country and I against the world. (Somali proverb)

The problem here is that even small conflicts often lead to entire families and clans feuding, which sometimes end in bloodshed. Last week, the Mobile Clinic was called to an emergency in a village where someone had been shot. The bullet had penetrated the forearm and lodged in the patient's chest. Fortunately, our team managed to stabilize the patient and transport him to a hospital two hours away. Unfortunately, they had to amputate the man's forearm at the hospital because it was no longer adequately supplied with blood. During the emergency, the team had to relocate at one point because there were still disturbances and conflicts in the village. This week, we were back in the same village, and all parties agreed to settle the conflict and compensate the victim with 10 camels. That's about $5,000 in value for a left forearm here.

In the hospital, there are sometimes situations where small conflicts become a huge issue. The conflict between our doctors and our pharmacist is still ongoing, and I have been asked several times which side I am on. Most of the time, I just smile and say that I strive for a pleasant working atmosphere.

Otherwise, there is not much news at the moment. Surprisingly, we had Monday off because it was a Muslim holiday, although there is not much to do here. Sometimes it gets a bit boring, and you have plenty of time to reflect on yourself. Today, the President of Somaliland has come to Caynaba, and the whole city has been buzzing for hours. Tomorrow, the President will also visit the hospital. Let's see what he has to say.

#AlexinSomaliland