MOGADISHU — Somalia has launched the second phase of a nationwide initiative aimed at strengthening women’s participation in peacebuilding and governance, as the country pushes to advance inclusion in its post-conflict recovery.
The Minister of Family and Human Rights Development, Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, unveiled the second phase of the Women’s Peace and Protection Joint Programme (WPP-II), a two-year initiative supported by the United Nations. This phase will concentrate on broadening women’s involvement in leadership and decision-making processes, while backing legal and policy frameworks intended to enhance protection and inclusion.
Implementation will be carried out by UN Women and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with technical assistance from the United Nations Transition Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS), building upon advancements accomplished during its initial phase. Authorities indicated that the effort plans to reach up to 42,000 people across the nation, focusing on at-risk populations such as internally displaced persons, minority communities, and women with disabilities.
Strengthening Women’s Role in Peacebuilding
In December 2025, the ministry convened a senior-level meeting in Mogadishu with UN Women officials, renewing their joint dedication to promoting women’s empowerment and gender equality throughout Somalia. Talks focused on intensifying collaboration to expand current and new gender initiatives, such as those enhancing women’s involvement, safeguards, and economic empowerment. Both parties examined fresh partnership opportunities aligned with national objectives and the ministry’s reform plans.
Legislative Milestones and the 30% Quota
In April 2026, Minister Al-Makhzoumi convened a high-level consultative session in Baidoa with local women’s organizations to examine the current status of women in South West State. During her keynote address, she detailed key legislative and policy advancements specifically designed to safeguard and empower Somali women.
Central to her address was the successful establishment of a mandatory 30% women’s quota integrated into both the Electoral Law and the Political Parties Law — a historic structural move toward ensuring inclusive, nationwide political engagement. She also referenced new legislation addressing gender-based violence, the federal ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), and the comprehensive Family Law, all of which substantially enhance legal protections for women.
Minister Convenes Women’s Groups in Baidoa
In April 2026, Minister Al-Makhzoumi convened a high-level consultative session in Baidoa, engaging directly with local women’s organizations to comprehensively examine the current status of women in South West State, addressing emerging opportunities, systemic challenges, and prevailing socio-economic pressures. During the session, dedicated women’s representatives from various participating civil society groups presented the complex realities experienced by women living throughout the Southwest regions. The discussions heavily emphasized major structural challenges and pressing humanitarian needs requiring immediate federal attention.
Women Journalists and Media Empowerment
In June 2025, ten women journalists representing Somalia’s Federal Member States concluded an intensive 10-day training in Mogadishu aimed at strengthening women’s leadership in journalism and enhancing reporting skills. The program was spearheaded by Bilan Media, Somalia’s pioneering all-women media team, and supported by UNDP Somalia with funding from the European Union.
In August 2025, the Somali Women Journalists Association (SOMWA) launched a two-day safety training program in Mogadishu aimed at empowering female journalists with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges of their profession, with a special focus on physical security, digital safety, and psychosocial support. The training, supported by UNTMIS, brought together dozens of women reporters, media practitioners, and representatives from Somalia’s federal government.
UN Support for Gender-Sensitive Reporting
A two-day training program held in Baidoa, supported by UNTMIS and organized by SOMWA, brought together 35 media professionals to enhance their skills in media ethics, gender-sensitive reporting, and the responsible coverage of issues related to gender-based violence. Participants were equipped with tools to promote inclusive and accurate storytelling, ensure survivors’ privacy and dignity, and highlight the experiences of marginalized groups.
Commitment to Women’s Economic Empowerment
Minister Al-Makhzoumi concluded the Baidoa session by outlining forthcoming initiatives dedicated to reinforcing women’s economic empowerment and entirely eradicating all forms of violence against women throughout the country. Delivering a call for structural unity and collaborative grassroots efforts, she emphasized that nationwide solidarity among women remains crucial to surmounting current political obstacles and fully utilizing the democratic prospects now available.
Integration with National Peacebuilding Strategy
Somalia continues to incorporate gender inclusion within its wider peacebuilding strategy, with government bodies and global partners highlighting women’s contributions to stabilization, governance, and sustainable development. The WPP-II initiative is expected to significantly contribute to enhancing women’s participation in leadership, peacebuilding, and decision-making processes nationwide, while supporting the implementation of laws, policies, and systems that ensure meaningful inclusion and protection.
The programme marks a significant step toward promoting peace, justice, and the protection of women’s rights in Somalia, as the country continues its transition toward democratic governance and long-term stability.
