Imagine an average salary you can earn as a caregiver Living In Somalia. You’re helping someone bathe, feeding them when they can’t lift a spoon, staying up through the night because they’re too weak to sleep alone and yet, at the end of the month, your earnings barely stretch past the cost of groceries. That’s the quiet reality for many caregivers in Somalia.
In a country where survival itself can be a full-time job, caregiving has started to grow into its own kind of profession, slowly, quietly, and mostly out of the spotlight. But unlike other jobs, caregiving doesn’t come with clear rules or price tags. One family might pay something small “just to show appreciation,” while another may offer a monthly wage but even then, it’s rarely enough to call stable income.
So, how much does a caregiver in Somalia actually earn? That’s what we’re here to explore not with vague guesses or textbook answers, but with a real look into what caregivers face financially. From makeshift hospital setups in conflict zones to private homes where one person cares for three generations, this isn’t just about salary. It’s about the cost of care in a place where giving help doesn’t always guarantee you will get it in return.
What’s the Actual Salary of a Caregiver in Somalia?
Just know that talking about money in Somalia can be tricky. The country has been through decades of conflict and economic instability, and formal salary structures are still a luxury in many sectors. So when it comes to caregivers? The numbers aren’t just low, they’re all over the place.
On average, a full-time caregiver in Somalia might earn between $60 to $120 per month. That’s right per month. And that figure can go even lower in rural or semi-urban areas where people rely more on family support than on paid help. For many caregivers, especially those hired informally by households, payment isn’t always a neat paycheck. Sometimes it comes in food. Sometimes in shared accommodation. Sometimes it’s just verbal promises stretched over weeks.
Now, in more structured environments like private clinics, homes of diaspora families, or jobs tied to NGOs, the numbers improve a bit. You might see monthly pay ranging from $150 to $250, and in rare cases, even up to $300+ if the caregiver has nursing experience, language skills (like English or Arabic), or handles complex medical care. But those jobs are limited and usually require strong personal referrals or some formal background in health care.
Another thing to note is that live-in caregivers often earn less in cash because meals and housing are covered. In theory, this should balance things out but in reality, many end up working longer hours with less freedom and fewer protections.
Also, there’s very little difference in pay based on gender. Both men and women are caregivers, but the work is still heavily undervalued overall, especially when done by women in family settings where it’s expected and not paid at all.
- $60–$120/month is common for informal jobs in homes, especially in towns or villages
- $150–$250/month is more likely in cities or with diaspora families, NGOs, or clinics
- $300+ is rare, but possible with experience, training, or multilingual abilities
But even the best-paying roles often lack job security, health coverage, or written agreements, so a higher salary doesn’t always mean a better situation.
See Also: Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Somalia for foreigners
What Affects a Caregiver’s Salary in Somalia?
If two caregivers in Somalia are doing similar work but earning completely different amounts, don’t be surprised it happens all the time. There’s no official scale, no set minimum, and definitely no one-size-fits-all rule. Pay depends on a messy mix of personal connections, location, job setup, and even luck. Let’s break down the real things that influence what a caregiver takes home:
1. Location: Caregivers working in major cities like Mogadishu, Hargeisa, or Garowe usually earn more than those in rural or semi-urban areas. Why? Urban families tend to have more income, especially if they receive support from relatives abroad. In rural areas, caregiving is often handled by relatives, and paid care may not be seen as necessary or affordable.
2. Type of Employer: Who’s paying your salary makes a huge difference. Private families often pay modest amounts, especially if it’s an informal setup. NGOs or private clinics offer better wages, sometimes double what private homes pay. Diaspora families hiring caregivers for their parents tend to pay more and expect more, often looking for someone reliable, respectful, and discreet.
3. Live-In or Come-and-Go Work: Live-in caregivers usually don’t have to worry about rent or meals, but their cash pay tends to be lower. On the flip side, if you live outside and commute daily, you might earn a bit more but that also comes with transport costs and longer days.
4. Type of Care Being Provided: Not all caregiving is created equal. There’s a big difference between helping someone with light housework and taking care of a paralyzed adult or a person with dementia. The more specialized the care, the higher your chances of better pay, though, in Somalia, this isn’t always guaranteed.
5. Experience and Personal Reputation: In a place where formal qualifications aren’t always the norm, your name is your brand. If you’ve cared for elders in respected families, worked with professionals, or have glowing word-of-mouth recommendations, your asking rate goes up. Experience counts even if it’s not written on paper.
6. Language Skills: It might not seem obvious, but caregivers who can speak English, Arabic, or even Italian (in certain cases) often get better-paying opportunities, especially when dealing with expat Somalis or international organizations. Communication can be a real deal breaker.
7. Gender Expectations: Unlike in many countries, caregiving in Somalia isn’t seen as “women’s work” only. Men and women both take on caregiving roles. However, women are more likely to be underpaid, especially if the job is seen as an extension of family duty instead of formal work.
8. Formal and Informal Employment: Most caregivers are hired informally, through phone calls, family friends, or word of mouth. In these cases, wages are less structured and can change without warning. Caregivers working through NGOs or small agencies, however, often get more consistent pay and clearer expectations.
9. Availability and Flexibility: If you’re willing to work long hours, cover weekends, or handle overnight shifts, families may offer a little more especially when the need is urgent. But make no mistake, flexibility doesn’t always mean fairness. It’s important to negotiate clearly before agreeing.
10. Crisis or Emergency Situations: Sometimes, families hire caregivers during a health emergency. In those urgent cases, they may offer higher pay just to find someone quickly. But when the emergency ends, the job may disappear too. So while the short-term pay might be good, the role may not be stable.
In Somalia, caregiver pay isn’t driven by fixed policy, it’s shaped by people, places, and personal circumstances. Two caregivers can do the same work and walk away with totally different paychecks, simply because one had the right connection or lived in the right city.
Challenges Caregivers Face in Somalia
Working as a caregiver in Somalia isn’t just about physical strength, it takes patience, emotional energy, and a level of sacrifice most people don’t see and while the job may seem simple from the outside, the truth is, it comes with more struggles than most are willing to admit. Here’s a look at the everyday hurdles caregivers in Somalia deal with:
1. Extremely Low Wages: Let’s start with the obvious, the pay is often painfully low. Many caregivers earn far below what they need to live a decent life. Some work full-time for less than $100 a month. When rent, food, transport, and clothing are factored in, what’s left? Sometimes, nothing.
2. No Job Security: A lot of caregivers are hired casually, there’s no contract, no notice period, no guarantees. You could work for months, and one sudden argument or health recovery could mean you’re out of a job with no warning or compensation. Everything feels temporary, even when you give it your all.
3. Being Treated as “Less Than”: In some households, caregivers are still seen as “just the help.” Their opinions don’t matter, and they’re not included in decisions even when they’re the ones spending the most time with the person being cared for. Respect isn’t always part of the job package.
4. Emotional and Mental Drain: Caring for someone who is ill, disabled, or elderly can wear down even the strongest people. Watching someone struggle daily, especially with no medical training or emotional support, takes a quiet toll. Add financial stress to the mix, and burnout happens fast.
5. Blurred Job Boundaries: This is a big one. Many caregivers in Somalia are expected to do way more than their actual role such as cleaning the house, running errands, cooking for the whole family, babysitting, or even hosting guests. What starts as a care job easily becomes “do everything” work, with no extra pay.
6. No Training or Medical Backup: Most caregivers in Somalia don’t get formal training, yet they’re expected to handle complicated health issues like stroke recovery, diabetes, or dementia on their own. There’s little to no medical guidance, which can be risky for both the caregiver and the patient.
7. Lack of Rest or Time Off: Days off is Rare and rest time is almost non-existent. Especially for live-in caregivers, it’s common to be “on duty” from sunrise to late night. Even if you’re not working non-stop, you’re always expected to be ready. That constant mental pressure can be exhausting.
8. Limited Support or Advocacy: There are very few groups or platforms in Somalia that represent caregiver rights. So if someone is underpaid, abused, or unfairly treated, there’s almost nowhere to report it and even less hope that anything will be done. Many just keep quiet and carry on.
9. Isolation: Caregivers especially those who live with the person they’re caring for often become cut off from family, friends, and even themselves. Days blur into each other. There’s no time for hobbies, rest, or even proper conversations. The loneliness creeps in, quietly but heavily.
10. Physical Wear and Tear: Caring for others means lifting, bending, cleaning, walking long distances, and sometimes sleeping in awkward conditions. Over time, caregivers suffer from back pain, joint aches, and overall body fatigue with little chance of medical help or paid sick days.
How Caregivers in Somalia Can Protect Themselves And Also Improve Their Situation
Caregiving in Somalia may not come with clear contracts, stable income, or official recognition but that doesn’t mean caregivers are powerless. Even in the middle of low pay and long hours, there are ways to look out for yourself, grow your value, and build a better path forward. Here’s how caregivers in Somalia can take smart steps to protect themselves and do better over time:
1. Always Set Clear Agreements: If a written contract isn’t possible, at least agree upfront on your pay, work hours, days off, and responsibilities. Don’t wait for misunderstandings. Be clear from the beginning, even if the job comes through a friend or family member. Clarity now prevents stress later.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Say “No” to Extra Tasks: It’s very common for caregivers to get overloaded with unrelated duties like cleaning the whole house, running errands, or babysitting multiple children. If you were hired to care for one person, it’s okay to gently remind your employer of your role. Protect your energy.
3. Keep a Personal Record of Your Work: Write down your start date, agreed pay, hours worked, and any important changes. Even a simple notebook helps. If you’re ever underpaid or accused of not doing your job, having notes can back you up especially when there’s no contract involved.
4. Build a Support Network With Other Caregivers: You are not alone. Talk to other caregivers whether in your neighborhood, mosque, church, or through mutual contacts. You can share job leads, salary information, and emotional support. Caregiver work is easier when you have people who understand your struggles.
5. Invest in Basic Skills Training: Even a short workshop in first aid, elderly care, or hygiene can increase your value. Some local NGOs, community centers, or faith-based groups may offer free or low-cost training. Having even one certificate can help you ask for higher pay or better roles.
6. Learn a Second Language: This one might seem far off, but even learning basic English or Arabic phrases can open new doors especially for jobs with international organizations or diaspora families. These employers often pay more and want someone they can easily communicate with.
7. Speak Up Early When Things Feel Unfair: Don’t wait until you’re completely fed up. If your employer adds new tasks, delays payment, or crosses boundaries, address it early calmly but clearly. Many caregivers keep silent until it explodes. Early communication can prevent bigger problems.
8. Try to Save, Even in Small Amounts: Even if you can only save $2 or $5 a week, start somewhere. Caregiver work is unpredictable, and having a small emergency fund can help you leave a bad job, start something new, or cover a health crisis without falling apart.
9. Take Your Own Health Seriously: It’s easy to ignore your own body when you’re constantly caring for someone else. But if you fall sick or break down, there’s no backup. Get rest when you can, eat well, sretch.and don’t ignore body pain because it adds up over time.
10. Think Long-Term: Ask yourself Where do I want to be in a year or two?*
Maybe you want to open a small care agency, train others, or just get a more stable job. Start thinking ahead. Save contacts. Learn something new each month. Slowly but surely, you can build toward something better.
Conclusion
In Somalia, caregiving isn’t a spotlight job. There are no grand announcements, no framed certificates, and often, not even a fair paycheck. But behind closed doors, caregivers carry a weight that few ever see like lifting bodies, calming fears, and showing up even when their own strength is running low.
Most do this work not for recognition, but because someone has to. Because there’s a sick uncle, an aging mother, a child with special needs and somewhere in all that quiet responsibility, caregiving becomes more than a task, it becomes survival, both for the one receiving care and the one giving it. But survival isn’t enough not anymore.
It’s time to talk about fair wages, about boundaries, about respect for the people doing some of the most emotionally draining work with the least protection. Because caregivers in Somalia deserve more than just a pat on the back, they deserve pay that reflects their effort, support when things get tough, and the chance to grow, not just get by. Care work is human work and it’s time we start treating it like it matters.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
1. How much do caregivers earn monthly in Somalia?
Most caregivers earn anywhere between $60 to $120 per month, especially in home-based informal jobs. In better-paying setups like private clinics or families supported by diaspora, the pay might go up to $150 or more, but that’s not the norm.
2. Do caregivers get paid more in big cities like Mogadishu or Hargeisa?
Yes, usually. In cities, families tend to have more income, and there’s a slightly better chance of landing a higher-paying role especially with NGOs or private employers. But even then, wages can still be low if the job is informal.
3. Is live-in caregiving better than daily work?
It depends. Live-in caregivers may earn less in cash but get free food and housing. Those who work by the day or shift might earn slightly more, but they cover their own expenses. It’s a trade-off between convenience and control over your time.
4. Can I work as a caregiver in Somalia without any training?
Yes, many caregivers are hired without formal training. But having basic first aid knowledge or caregiving skills can make you more competitive and help you negotiate for better pay.
5. What kind of work do caregivers actually do?
Caregivers help with personal hygiene, feeding, moving patients, giving medication, and emotional support. In many homes, they also end up cleaning, cooking, or helping with other household tasks even when it wasn’t part of the original plan.
6. Are there contracts for caregivers in Somalia?
Very few. Most caregiving jobs in Somalia are based on trust and verbal agreements. Written contracts are rare, but if you can get one even if it’s just a short letter, it helps protect you from sudden changes or misunderstandings.
7. What challenges do caregivers commonly face?
Low pay, long hours, lack of rest, no job security, emotional exhaustion, and being asked to do extra work without extra pay. It’s a tough job that often goes unappreciated, especially when there’s no formal support system.
8. How can caregivers protect themselves from being taken advantage of?
Be clear about your job role before starting. Keep records of your hours and payments. Say no to extra tasks if they weren’t agreed upon. And connect with other caregivers for advice and support, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
9. Are male caregivers common in Somalia?
Yes. While caregiving is often linked to women in many places, men in Somalia also work as caregivers, especially in cases involving male patients or physical assistance. Pay and respect can still be an issue regardless of gender.
10. Can caregivers improve their income over time?
Definitely. Learning basic healthcare skills, improving communication especially in English or Arabic, building a good reputation, and connecting with better-paying employers like NGOs or international families can all help increase income step by step.
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