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Somalia faces significant challenges in fostering inclusive and democratic political processes. Despite some gains in authority after al-Shabaab’s decline, resource competition and unresolved grievances have led to increased inter-communal conflict. Disputes over power and resource allocation among different government levels hinder stable governance.

The complex democratic landscape is further complicated by ongoing civil war, clan disputes, and extremist threats. Climate change poses additional risks due to Somalia’s reliance on agriculture in a semi-arid environment. Youth engagement in climate initiatives is limited by unemployment, educational barriers, and exclusion from decision-making, exacerbating marginalization.

With over 70% of the population under 30, youth involvement is crucial, as feelings of frustration and inequity have led many to join militias or seek opportunities abroad. Empowering this demographic could turn them into a valuable asset for the country’s future.

With the emergence of climate change, the youth have not been given a priority to embrace mitigations to climate change. Climate change in Somalia is characterized by recurrent drought and regular flooding which leads to failed crops, loss of livestock and Somalia’s chronic food insecurity. Climate crises threaten Somalia’s socio-economic progress by increasing water and food scarcity, the need for humanitarian assistance, displacement and the degradation of traditional livelihoods.

The young people have not received any awareness and sensitization to climate change. There’s a need to enhance awareness and understanding of climate change among the population, especially the youth in Somalia may not be fully aware of the causes, consequences and potential solutions related to climate change and do not have the knowledge and skills in dealing with climate change hence there is need to empower, and build their capacity on how to deal with climate change.  

In response to that, Youth Empowering Council (YECO) Somalia with the funds from the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF), launched a new project entitled on “Empowering the Next Generation to Address Climate Change in Somalia”.

The project will establish four networks, comprising 40 climate champions across four districts, enhance their climate change literacy and awareness, and empower them to lead awareness campaigns for youth and communities, influence and adjust local and national policies, and implement adaptation initiatives in four districts. By providing comprehensive education and resources, the project equips youth from four districts with the knowledge and skills needed to become informed advocates and leaders in the fight against climate change.

Inclusive education is a fundamental right that ensures every child, regardless of their abilities, has equal access to quality education. To advocate for inclusive education and address the needs of students with disabilities, Youth Empowering Council (YECO), in collaboration with Education for All Somalia (EFASOM) and OXFAM Netherlands, organized a National Special Education Needs Forum. Supported by funds from the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) under the Education Outloud Project (EOL) Phase I, the forum took place in Cadaado, bringing together key stakeholders to push for inclusive education practices.

The Forum commenced with the participation of esteemed stakeholders. The event was inaugurated by the Cadaado district education officer, who expressed the district’s commitment to inclusive education. The forum welcomed secondary and primary school teachers, principals, representatives from the Ministry of Education of Galmudug State, and members from civil society organizations. This diverse group of participants underscored the collective effort required to drive change in the education sector.

The forum focused on advocating for inclusive education practices and addressing the needs of students with disabilities. Through panel discussions, presentations, and interactive sessions, the forum aimed to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive education, share best practices, and identify strategies for implementing inclusive policies. Participants engaged in thought-provoking conversations, exploring ways to remove barriers and create an inclusive learning environment for all students.

The National Special Education Needs Forum culminated with closing remarks by YECO’s Executive Director, Mohamed Shariif. He expressed gratitude to all participants for their active engagement and invaluable contributions to the forum. He emphasized the importance of sustained advocacy efforts and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of inclusive education practices. The forum served as a stepping stone towards creating an inclusive educational landscape that caters to the diverse needs of all students.

Human rights are the cornerstone of a just and inclusive society, promoting equality, dignity, and freedom for all individuals. To honor and raise awareness about these fundamental rights, Youth Empowering Council (YECO), in partnership with SOGHA and Peace and Democracy Development Action (PEDDA), organized a virtual commemoration of Human Rights Day. The event brought together esteemed guest speakers, including Batuulo Ahmed Gabbale, Chair-Lady of the Somali Women Association, who shared their insights on human rights-related topics. The meeting, which was opened by YECO’s Executive Director, Mohamed Shariif, provided a platform for engaging discussions and reflection amongst the participants.

The virtual commemoration featured highly respected guest speakers who played a vital role in shedding light on various aspects of human rights. Batuulo Ahmed Gabbale, the Chair-Lady of the Somali Women Association, delivered a thought-provoking address that emphasized the importance of gender equality, women’s rights, and the empowerment of marginalized groups within society. Her inspiring words resonated with participants, sparking meaningful conversations on promoting and protecting human rights in Somalia.

The event fostered an interactive environment where participants actively engaged with the guest speakers. The discussions encompassed a wide range of human rights issues, including access to education, healthcare, freedom of expression, and the rights of vulnerable communities. Through these conversations, attendees were encouraged to share their experiences, perspectives, and innovative ideas for advancing human rights in their communities.

The commemoration drew to a close with closing remarks by Abdifitah Abdullahi from PEDDA. He expressed his gratitude to the guest speakers, participants, and the organizing partners for their unwavering commitment to promoting and safeguarding human rights. He emphasized the need for continued collaboration and collective action to address human rights challenges and create a more inclusive and equitable society.