In the context of Somalia’s complex social fabric, issues of gender-based violence (GBV) and protection are of paramount concern. Displacement, conflict, and societal norms compound vulnerabilities, leaving many at risk of exploitation and harm. READO recognizes the urgent need to address these challenges, providing critical support and advocacy to safeguard the rights and dignity of vulnerable individuals. Through comprehensive protection measures and targeted interventions, we strive to create safe spaces and empower survivors, fostering resilience and promoting a culture of respect and equality.
Safeguarding Vulnerable Communities
In Somalia, gender-based violence (GBV) and protection issues are pervasive, exacerbated by conflict, displacement, and societal norms. READO’s comprehensive approach to GBV and protection encompasses various strategies aimed at safeguarding vulnerable communities and promoting gender equality.
Prevention and Awareness: READO prioritizes prevention efforts through community awareness campaigns, education initiatives, and advocacy programs. These activities aim to challenge harmful gender norms, promote gender equality, and raise awareness about the rights of women, girls, and marginalized groups. By engaging with communities, religious leaders, and local authorities, we work to change attitudes and behaviors that perpetuate GBV.
Response and Support Services: In collaboration with local partners and service providers, READO offers essential support services to survivors of GBV, including medical care, psychosocial support, legal assistance, and safe shelter. Our response teams are trained to provide compassionate and survivor-centered care, ensuring that survivors receive the support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.
Capacity Building: READO invests in building the capacity of local organizations, healthcare providers, and community leaders to effectively respond to and prevent GBV. Through training workshops, skill-building sessions, and mentorship programs, we empower local stakeholders to identify, report, and address cases of GBV in their communities. By strengthening local systems and networks, we enhance the overall response to GBV and improve access to services for survivors.
Advocacy and Policy Engagement: READO advocates for the implementation of policies and laws that protect the rights of women, girls, and vulnerable populations. We engage with government authorities, policymakers, and civil society organizations to promote legislative reforms, strengthen institutional mechanisms for GBV prevention and response, and ensure accountability for perpetrators of violence. Through our advocacy efforts, we strive to create an enabling environment that supports survivors and upholds their rights.
Monitoring and Evaluation: READO conducts regular monitoring and evaluation of its GBV and protection programs to assess their effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. By collecting data, tracking progress, and soliciting feedback from beneficiaries, we ensure that our interventions are responsive to the needs of survivors and contribute to meaningful change in communities.
Projects in GBV and Protection
- Multi-sectoral Emergency Drought Response in Baidoa, Buurhakaba and Hudur Districts Southwest State of Somalia, Somalia
- Enhance access to livelihood support and empower the displaced affected communities (DACs) in Barwaaqo IDPs Settlements in Baidoa
- Providing emergency life-saving access to safe, clean water, sanitation, and hygiene to drought-affected communities in the rural areas Baidoa District
- Creating economic and social prospects for IDPs and the local population in Baidoa
- Emergency integrated education, protection, and life assistance intervention for drought-affected girls and boys in Baidoa District, Somalia
- Providing emergency life-saving access to safe, clean water, sanitation, and hygiene to Flood-affected communities in the Baidoa district
For more information about our Livelihoods program please talk to us abdukadir@readosom.org