Adetoro Adetayo Adetoro is the Co-Publisher and Editor at Susinsight. Her work covers the economic trends, environmental shifts, and social changes shaping the African continent. She holds an MSc in Sustainable Chemical Engineering and a BSc in Chemical Engineering. Adetoro also operates as a Sustainability Professional from Nigeria.

The Silent Echoes

4 min read

Illustration by Tomi Abe

"Why do you always sit alone, Abdi?" Asha asked, with concern lacing her voice as she approached her brother, who sat on the edge of their small family's compound, staring into the distance.

Abdi sighed, his eyes not leaving the horizon. "It's the only time I feel at peace," he replied, his voice barely a whisper.

The sun was beginning to set over the vibrant city of Mombasa, casting long shadows across the bustling streets. The sounds of the evening market filled the air with a cacophony of voices, laughter, and the occasional shout from vendors.

Asha sat beside her brother, placing a hand gently on his shoulder. "You know you can talk to me, right? About anything?"

Abdi finally turned to look at her, his dark eyes reflecting a depth of pain she hadn't noticed before. "It's not that simple, Asha. Sometimes, I don't even understand what's happening in my mind."

Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of their mother calling them for dinner. The rich aroma of ugali and sukuma wiki wafted through the air, a comforting reminder of home and family. They stood up, walking back to the house in silence.

Abdi had always been a quiet child, but over the past year, his silence had deepened into a brooding withdrawal that worried his family. Asha had tried to encourage him to join the local youth groups or attend community events, but he always found an excuse to stay away.

One evening, as Asha helped their mother, Mama Zawadi, prepare dinner, she decided it was time to do something about Abdi's growing isolation. "Mama, I think Abdi needs help. More than we can. . .

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Adetoro Adetayo Adetoro is the Co-Publisher and Editor at Susinsight. Her work covers the economic trends, environmental shifts, and social changes shaping the African continent. She holds an MSc in Sustainable Chemical Engineering and a BSc in Chemical Engineering. Adetoro also operates as a Sustainability Professional from Nigeria.