For over 15 years, Rafeek depended on small-scale livestock rearing to scrape together a living. With only four goats of his own, and occasional day labour herding others’ animals or farming on contract, he made less than £50 a month. It was never enough, but somehow, he managed to get by.
Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Prices rose, demand fell, and the already fragile income he relied on disappeared. Feed became unaffordable, and opportunities to work dried up. It felt like the final blow.
That’s when Muslim Aid stepped in.
Working with the local Divisional Secretariat, Rafeek was selected for support through Muslim Aid’s Livelihood Income Generation Programme, designed to go further than temporary relief by building long-term, climate-resilient income streams.
Rafeek received seven healthy local female goats and one Jamunapari crossbreed male, a strategic mix to improve the weight, health, and value of future generations. He was also provided with a 10x10ft goat shelter to shield his herd from rain, heat, and strong winds, which are increasingly vital protections in a region where extreme weather is becoming the norm.
But the support did not stop at livestock.
Rafeek was trained in animal care, basic veterinary skills, and Disaster Risk Reduction to support him in managing his herd sustainably and independently. He now accesses routine veterinary care through local services and is preparing to welcome a new generation of goats in the coming months.
“This support came at a time when I was losing hope,” Rafeek said. “Now, I have a secure way to provide for my family—one that protects our environment and our future.”
Rafeek’s story is just one example of how Muslim Aid is helping vulnerable communities not only survive, but thrive with dignity and the tools to build a better tomorrow.
We are a faith-based British international charity that provides help to people who are victims of natural disasters or conflict or suffering from poverty, hunger, disease, homelessness, injustice, deprivation or lack of skills and economic opportunities.
© Copyright 2026. Muslim Aid - Help Muslims Around the World in Need . All Rights Reserved.
Charity CIO No. 1176462
Serving humanity since 1985.
