On 7 June 2026, a two-day workshop concluded in Hargeisa at the Ambassador Hotel. The event was organized by the Voice of Somaliland Minority Women Organization (VOSOMWO), in collaboration with Welthungerhilfe (WHH) and with support from the German Government.
The workshop brought together representatives from the regional administrations of Maroodi-jeex, Saaxil, and Togdheer, as well as community leaders, civil society representatives, and other stakeholders. The discussions focused on the situation of minority and marginalized communities living in the three regions, the challenges they face in accessing education, employment, and other essential services, and practical strategies for addressing these challenges.
Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on promoting the rights of minority communities, strengthening their participation in social, economic, and political life, and improving access to basic services and opportunities that are the right of every citizen.
One of the key outcomes of the workshop was the establishment of regional advocacy and volunteer committees in each of the three regions. These committees will work closely with government institutions, the private sector, civil society organizations, and development partners to advance the rights and interests of minority communities.
The committees will advocate for improved access to education, employment opportunities, social services, and inclusive development programs. They will also engage with ministries, government agencies, and other relevant institutions to identify and promote sustainable solutions to the challenges facing minority communities.
This initiative represents an important step toward promoting social inclusion, equality, and justice, while ensuring that minority communities are able to participate fully and meaningfully in the development of Somaliland.
At the conclusion of the workshop, regional committees were officially established in Maroodi-jeex, Saaxil, and Togdheer regions. A total of nine committee members were selected in each region to serve as advocates for the protection, empowerment, and development of minority communities and to promote equal access to opportunities and services.
The newly established committees are expected to play a vital role in strengthening community engagement, advocating for minority rights, and supporting efforts to build a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
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