In the Gaza Strip, where resources are scarce and challenges abundant, one Palestinian tailor has devised an ingenious solution to continue his craft amidst the ongoing conflict. Raad Saad, once a factory owner employing 20 workers, now operates a bicycle-powered sewing machine in the remnants of his damaged workspace.
The Israel-Hamas conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has now stretched for 10 months, severely impacting Gaza's 2.3 million residents. The territory, already one of the world's most densely populated areas, faces acute shortages of power, fuel, water, and medicine.
Saad's adaptation reflects the broader struggles in Gaza, where the unemployment rate ranks among the highest globally. The textile industry, once a significant economic sector, has been particularly hard-hit. Many Gazans have turned to alternative energy sources, with solar power gaining popularity due to persistent electricity shortages.
Saad's 13-year-old son, Issa, assists by pedaling the bicycle that powers the sewing machine. This family collaboration showcases the resilience of Gazans, nearly half of whom are under 18 years old. The territory's young population faces numerous challenges, including disrupted education due to recurring conflicts.
"There is no money. This is why we came up with the alternative way, using small batteries and LED, and we are moving forward."
The Gaza Strip, a mere 365 square kilometers in area, grapples with severe water scarcity and quality issues. Its economy heavily relies on international aid, with traditional industries like fishing severely impacted by restrictions. Despite these hardships, the territory boasts a rich archaeological heritage dating back thousands of years.
As Saad navigates through this crisis, his story embodies the broader narrative of Gaza's residents. Displaced multiple times, like many others, he continues to seek solutions in a place where even basic necessities are often out of reach. His determination to "start a new journey using new solutions" reflects the spirit of a population facing one of the world's highest growth rates under challenging circumstances.