Federal Government of Somalia

Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development

SOMALI
WOMEN’S
CONVENTION
report
 Dedication to Abdirahman Hosh Jibril,
Federal Minister of Constitutional Affairs

A foreword by Deqa Yasin Hagi Yusuf,

Federal Minister of Women and Human Rights Development

Somalia mourns the loss of a great statesman and champion of women’s rights:
Abdirahman Hosh Jibril, our Federal Minister of Constitutional Affairs.

Born and schooled in Somalia, Honorable Hosh subsequently earned degrees in Sociology and Law
in Canada. Committed to the future of Somalia and the welfare of those most excluded, he went on to
use his expertise and tremendous intellect to serve as a lawyer with a focus on refugees, immigration
and human rights; a community activist; a member of parliament; and a two-term Minister of
Constitutional Affairs. He did so with integrity, humility, an open mind and an unwavering ability to
see the best in each and everyone. A true man of the people, he focused on what unites us beyond
our different backgrounds or status in society.

As a country, we will remember his true commitment and important contributions to the full
participation of all Somalis, including women and girls, in building a united, inclusive and peaceful
Somalia. On a personal level, I will miss a dear friend who knew how to tackle great challenges
with a contagious sense of humour. My thoughts are with his family, his sons and his daughter Sagal,
who were his greatest pride and joy.

The organizers of the Somali Women’s Convention could count on the valuable support of Minister
Hosh. The Convention and the Somali Women’s Charter embodied many principles that Minister Hosh
firmly stood behind: Unity, inclusive participation and human rights for all. It is now time to work
together to translate these principles and the demands of the Charter into action. In this endeavour,
we will miss the treasured advice and contributions of Minister Hosh. His example will continue to
serve as a guide and inspiration for all of us as we work towards a better future for Somalia.

This publication is dedicated to the Minister and his lasting legacy.

Contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 4

The Somali Women’s Charter 5

INTRODUCTION 8

OPENING OF THE CONVENTION: Introductory Remarks 9

Sainab Abdi Moallim, Fist Lady of Somalia
Deqa Yasin Hagi Yusuf, Minister of Women and Human Rights Development,
Federal Government of Somalia
Gamal Mohamed Hassan, Minister of Planning, Investment and Economic Development
Khadija Mohamed Diriye, Minister of Youth and Sports, Federal Government of Somalia
Mahad Abdalla Awad, Deputy Speaker of the House of the People
The late Eng. Abdirahman Omar Osman Yarisow, Mayor of Mogadishu
Hawa Yusuf Ahmed, Member of the House of the People, Chairperson Gender,
Human Rights and Humanitarian Committee
Caasha Khaliif Mohamee, Minister of Women and Human Rights Development,
Hirshabele State of Somalia
Peter de Clercq, UNSOM, Officer in Charge and DSRSG

THEMATIC SESSIONS – Introduction and Summary of Key Themes 19

Session 1: The Somalia Provisional Constitution Reviewed Through a Gender Lens 21

Session 2: Women’s Political Participation 26
Session 3: Women’s Economic Participation as a Key Element in Achieving the NDP 30
Session 4: Women, Climate Change and Resilience 34
Session 5: Justice for Women and Girls 37
Session 6: Innovation and Women Pioneers 40
Session 7: Advocacy Around the Passing and Implementation of SOB and
Anti-FGM Bills – Best Practices 44

CLOSING OF THE CONVENTION 46

Closing remarks by Halima Ismail, Chairperson of the National Elections Commission
Closing remarks by Simon Bolongo, Deputy of AMISOM
Closing speech and presentation of the Somali Women’s Charter by Deqa Yasin, Minister of
Women and Human Rights Development
Speech by Hassan Ali Khaire, Prime Minister, Federal Government of Somalia

THE somali WOMEN’S CONVENTION ON SOCIAL MEDIA 50

ANNEX 1: AGENDA OF THE SOMALI WOMEN’S CONVENTION 51

3
Executive Summary

Current efforts to review Somalia’s constitution and develop displaced women, women living with disabilities, women
electoral laws provide critical windows of opportunity from rural areas and youth. Male gender champions
to advance gender equality and women’s rights. To help and religious scholars also actively participated in the
ensure these openings are seized, 350 women and gender conference.
champions from across Somalia and the diaspora convened
In panel discussions and working groups, delegates
in Mogadishu on 04-06 March 2019 for the three-day
deliberated on key challenges faced by women and girls, the
Somali Women’s Convention.
active contributions women are making to the transition,
The Convention aimed to raise awareness of the review of and solutions for gender equality, peace and prosperity in
the constitution, electoral laws, as well as other openings Somalia. The discussions were live-streamed and continued
for women’s rights; to build new alliances for advocacy on on social media, reaching an audience of 207150 outside of
gender equality and women’s empowerment; and to provide the conference halls. Shared demands for women’s rights
women with an opportunity to develop joint demands emerging from these discussions were compiled into a single
for their rights in the constitution, the electoral laws and document: the Somalia Women’s Charter.
beyond.
At the end of the Convention, the Minister of Women and
The agenda for the Convention was developed under the Human Rights Development, Hon. Deqa Yasin, presented
leadership of the Ministry of Women and Human Rights the Charter to the Prime Minister of Somalia, Hon. Hassan
Development with an inclusive Steering Group composed Ali Khaire, in front of all delegates. Enclosed below, it
of leaders who have made – and are making – critical affirms that Somali women are “equal partners working for
contributions to the promotion of women’s rights and their peace and political processes, leading us towards security,
empowerment in government, parliament, civil society, the stability and sustainable development for all” and calls
media and the private sector, both at the national level and
“for the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia
in the Federal Member States.
to enshrine the unconditional commitment to gender
Participants included women’s leaders and gender equality, human rights and empowerment of women”. It
champions working in government, civil society and the goes on to list women’s joint demands for their rights in the
private sector at national level, in the Federal Member constitution, electoral laws and beyond. In closing remarks
States and in diaspora. Special efforts were made to ensure to the Convention, Somalia’s Prime Minister expressed his
representation of marginalized groups, such as internally commitment to make the Somali Women’s Charter a reality.

Deqa Yasin Hagi Yusuf, Minister of Women and Human Rights Development, Federal Government of Somalia

4 somali women’s convention report

somali women’s charter

Preamble:
We, the women of Somalia affirm that:

• The unity of Somali women is sacred. In this spirit, we represent diverse groups of women in the
Federal Member States and the Benadir Region, including those living in rural and urban areas
and diaspora, women living with disabilities, young women and girls and elder women;

• In unity, we call for the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia to enshrine the
unconditional commitment to gender equality, human rights and empowerment of women;

• We demand for non-discrimination, equality, equity, justice and fairness to form the
cornerstones of inclusive peace and development;

• We are equal partners working for peace and political processes, leading us towards security,
stability and sustainable development for all; and

• We will drive positive change if we are fully acknowledged as equal partners. The world is
changing, the planet is changing, and minds are changing. Collectively we address our common
challenges, using equal and complementary strengths to achieve peace and sustainable
development for Somalia.

5
 Full inclusion is the foundation of effective governance,
sustainable peace and development
We, the Somali women, resolve to realize equal participation in all political and peacebuilding processes and
accountability from the highest officials of the state. Without women’s political participation, there can be no
sustained peace and development.

In order to address structural and historical discrimination, a quota is required to reflect a 50/50 gender
divide: not less than 50% of any sex to be represented across the three branches of government, all
independent commissions, across all federal member states and all levels of governance, whether in elected
or appointed positions. We demand that women are equally represented in the constitution review process,
that the constitution, the electoral and political party law advance women’s representation and participation
in electoral and political party processes and enshrine the 50/50 quota, making women’s full inclusion and
leadership a reality.

During decades of conflict in Somalia, Somali women were a formidable force sustaining families and
communities; we women continued to support our children, our young people, vulnerable members in our
communities, and kept our family and community assets safe. We sustained livelihoods and governance
when our men were fighting. By overcoming historical disadvantages and discrimination, together, we can
achieve a peaceful society where development for all is the responsibility of all.

Equality, equity and non-discrimination are essential

Somali women are resourceful, resilient and a bedrock of our society. Complementing the work of men, our
equal participation is essential to the social, economic and political development of Somalia.

We commit to full participation in every sphere of public and private life. We will strive for affirmative
actions and accountability measures to attain the goals of equality.

6 somali women’s convention report

Zero tolerance for gender-based violence (GBV)
The women of Somalia are committed to accelerate efforts to eliminate all forms of violence against women
and girls. Somali women and girls are impacted by both conflict-related sexual violence and other forms of
sexual and gender-based violence, including female genital mutilation. This violence destroys societal cohesion
and women’s lives, undermining the capacity of women to meaningfully participate and contribute to societal
development. Only with zero tolerance for GBV and harmful traditional practices will Somalia become a
prosperous nation.

We demand that the Constitution makes explicit that the right to safety and security includes women’s right
to be protected from gender-based violence, both in and outside of the home. We call for the immediate passing
and enforcement of the Sexual Offences Bill and anti-FGM legislation.

Justice for all

Women’s rights are routinely violated and adversely affected by prevailing insecurity and the absence of
appropriate legal protection. We, the women of Somalia, demand holistic and specific sets of laws that effectively
sanction and secure gender equality and women’s rights, and which make discriminatory acts punishable. We
further demand full participation, a minimum of 50% representation in the development of the Rule of Law
system reform and the justice sector to address historical discrimination against women.

Any customary practices contrary to the Sharia and international, regional or national laws on human rights
and women’s rights must be outlawed. Formal officials and traditional leaders entrusted with the administration
of security and justice must be empowered to apply gender equality and women’s rights principles and
standards provided for in domestic laws and regional and international instruments.

Reconciliation and peace for women at the center of

transitional justice
Women play a crucial role in reconciliation. We demand that the justice and reconciliation commission remain
in the constitution. It is essential that the members of the commission reflect a 50/50 gender divide. Women’s
active participation is essential to ensure differential experiences of conflict are addressed. Transitional justice
that reflects women’s concerns will lead to sustainable peace. As women, we will put women’s security and
peace at the center of conflict resolution and transitional justice.

7
 Women’s economic empowerment, full participation and
socio-economic rights are cornerstones for equality and
sustainable development
We, the Somali women, demand for the Constitution to guarantee us equal access, ownership and control
over property, natural resources, technology, financial services and government tenders; that all foreign
investment and development assistance is assessed through a gender lens; and for women to be given equal
opportunities in and access to these investments. These steps are key to securing our socio-economic rights.
Many Somali households are headed by women, yet women have inadequate or no ownership and control over
their houses. Women are more often outside the formal labor force and working in the household. We demand
for the State to further strengthen in practice our rights in education, health, housing, employment and food
reserve by institutionalizing affirmative actions in these areas. These are also to be applied to all vulnerable
people, including those living with disabilities, older people, minorities who have long suffered discrimination
and internally displaced people. We also call on the private sector to increase the representation of women in
their top management and leadership positions and provide opportunities and affirmative action for women,
including younger women.

As the conflict has destroyed or seriously dilapidated the economic infrastructure, priority has been given to
rebuild the essential and most profitable infrastructure in the country. Women have to be at the table of decision
making so that their specific needs and experiences can be addressed. A minimum of 50% representation
across all formal consultations is a prerequisite for meaningful reconstruction. Climate change poses distinct,
enormous burdens for women and girls. Sustainable development and resilience can only be achieved if
women and girls are empowered to equally contribute to the resolution of climate change problems and their
differential experiences are fully addressed.

Inclusive innovation
To develop new solutions for society and seize opportunities provided by technology, women and men need
to think and act together; elder and youth need to join forces for the betterment of Somalia. The Information
Technology Revolution is changing the way we receive information, how we process it, how we work and what
jobs we will do. It is happening at an unprecedented pace. Women and men, young and old, experience these
technological changes differently and have distinct contributions to make in the technological revolution. Because
of this, we simply cannot afford to have any less than our whole population engaged and contributing. Therefore,
it is of great importance to empower women as innovators and entrepreneurs and advance gender equality
using innovative approaches which draw on new technologies and collective learning. To realize this, we Somali
women demand to increase compulsory attainment of secondary education, access to tertiary education and
skills training courses for women and girls and additional affirmative action in securing young girls’ exposure to
science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

8 somali women’s convention report

Introduction

In the National Development Plan (2017-2019), the The Convention aimed to strengthen awareness of the
Federal Government of Somalia recognizes that ‘Peace, review of the constitution and electoral laws, as well
stability and development can only be efficiently as other openings to advance women’s rights and their
achieved by addressing the obstacles women face to empowerment; to create new partnerships for advocacy
fully contribute to their country’s development.’ Agenda in this area; and to offer a forum for women to develop
2030, UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2282, shared demands for their rights in the constitution, the
UNSCR 1325 and follow-up resolutions, and other electoral laws and beyond.
international agreements affirm that advancing women’s
empowerment in conflict-affected settings is both a The Ministry of Women and Human Rights
key objective in its own right and a precondition for Development led the development of the conference
sustainable peace and development. agenda with an inclusive Steering Group comprising
leaders in the promotion of women’s empowerment in
The on-going review of Somalia’s constitution and the
diverse fields, including representatives of government,
development of new electoral laws offer key windows
parliament, civil society, the private sector and the media.
of opportunity to advance this agenda. Using these
opportunities to promote women’s rights could lead to a The Convention included panel discussions and working
watershed for women’s empowerment – today and for groups on women’s constitutional rights; women’s
generations to come. Failure to do so will lead to a loss political participation; women’s economic participation;
of hard-won achievements, including recent progress in women, climate change and resilience; justice for women
women’s political representation. and girls; gender-based violence and women’s roles in
To help ensure these windows of opportunity are seized, innovation. The First Lady of Somalia and Somalia’s
350 women and gender champions from across Somalia Prime Minister opened and closed the event. Further
and the diaspora came together in Mogadishu on 04- widening participation, the event generated high levels
06 March 2019 for the Somali Women’s Convention. of interest on social media.

FROM LEFT: Sainab Abdi Moallim, First Lady of Somalia; Hassan Ali Khaire, Prime Minister, Federal Government of Somalia; Deqa Yasin Hagi Yusuf, Minister of Women and
Human Rights Development, Federal Government of Somalia

9
Following three days of discussions, participants agreed
on a set of joint demands for women’s rights: the ‘Somali
Women’s Charter’ (see above). It calls for women’s special
representation in all levels of governance through a
50 % quota, zero tolerance for gender-based violence
and passage of pending Sexual Offences legislation, the
promotion and protection of women’s socio-economic
rights, and other steps to promote women’s rights and
empowerment.
At the end of the Convention, Somalia’s Prime Minister
expressed his commitment to realize this Charter. He
specifically called on the Ministry of Women and Human
Rights Development to draw up an action plan for the
implementation of the Charter and its integration into the
Group of Somali singers (Hobollada Waaberi) performing during the opening of
next government budget. the convention.

This report provides a summary of the discussions at the

Somalia Women’s Convention. It first highlights opening
remarks provided by a number of women’s leaders and
gender champions, starting with the First Lady of Somalia,
H.E. Sainab Abdi Moallim. The main section of the report
summarizes panel and group discussions on the seven main
themes of the convention. The report then turns to closing
remarks offered by Somalia’s Prime Minister, Hassan Ali
Khaire, and others. Finally, this publication provides an
overview of social media engagement on the Convention.
The conference programme is included in Annex 1.

Conference participants share their concerns for women’s rights during group
discussion.

10 somali women’s convention report

OPENING OF THE CONVENTION: Introductory Remarks

Sainab Abdi Moallim

First Lady of Somalia

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, They lack access to justice, they suffer sexual violence and
extreme poverty. Perpetrators also have mothers and they
It is an honor for me to be here at this convention, where
should be the first to stand up against the horrible crimes of
women from across Somalia and the diaspora have come
their sons. This can prevent many other crimes.
together to talk about their concerns.
It is also important to note the significant advances Somali
This past week was extremely painful for the Somali
women have made in business and politics. They have
people. A 12-year old girl was mistreated in the most
attained an unprecedented number of seats in parliament.
heinous way. May Allah have mercy on the soul of Aisha,
This was possible after they came together and voiced their
who was killed and thrown in front of her family’s house.
demands, following a clear strategy. More and more Somali
We have to take a stand against perpetrators that commit
women are educated and this, in the long term, will help us
these grave crimes and ensure that they face justice. It is
to solve our common challenges more effectively.
our shared responsibility to renounce acts like these with a
clear and loud voice.
Our country knows many Aishas and this kind of act sends
a message of terror and fear to the hearts of our people.
We have to counter this message, all of us, and let all of
our girls know that we will no longer allow for this to
happen to them. The horrible act committed against Aisha
is committed against all of us. We have to stand up against
this.
This convention, where Somali women are discussing their
rights, challenges and concerns, is taking place at a very
opportune time. Women in Somalia have long struggled
to keep their families alive. Somali mothers have always
done all that is necessary to take care of their children.
Addressing the challenges faced by Somali women in our
society is in the best interest of all families and our nation
Sainab Abdi Moallim, First Lady of Somalia
as a whole. Somali women are known for their power,
patience and integrity. If they come together and use their

“
minds, capacities and resources, they can and will bring
about change. To reach peace and overcome Somalia’s
current challenges, women must be part of the process.
It is critical that women receive their full rights, including
in the areas of education, justice, security and politics. We
can better attain this if we respect each other and work
Addressing the challenges faced by
together in pursuit of our common goal. Somali women in our society is in
There are many girls in Somalia that have studied and the best interest of all families and
worked their way up. However, they are still struggling to
realize their rights and obtain fair chances in our society. our nation as a whole.

11
Deqa Yasin Hagi Yusuf
Minister of Women and Human Rights Development,
Federal Government of Somalia

It is a great honor to welcome you to this convention

for Somali women initiated by the Ministry of Women
and Human Rights Development. As you are aware, our
government is committed to supporting those who are
not well represented in public life and decision-making,
including women.
We decided that this convention should bring together the
women leaders who have advocated for women’s rights
and political representation since the Carta Conference. It
should be noted that anything we have today is the result
of the sacrifice made by these women. We thank these
women, many of whom are with us here today.
The reason for convening this convention at this time
is that there are opportunities for women’s rights, such Deqa Yasin Hagi Yusuf, Minister of Women and Human Rights Development,
Federal Government of Somalia
as the review of the constitution, which women must
seize. The drafting of the election law and the political
parties law is also in progress. We see these as important We also have the First Lady of Somalia here with us today.
opportunities that, if effectively harnessed, can help us She is not just here as the First Lady but also as a woman
move forward from where we are today. who has interest in the development of women and their
participation. Madam First Lady, your pledge to support
This Somalia women’s convention will include three
our efforts means a lot to us. Thank you for this.
days of intensive work. Once these opening remarks and
speeches end today, we will get to work. We have no time In the preparation for this convention, we have formed
to rest, no time to waste. a 15-member women’s committee whose members were
selected from different sectors of the society. All of them
What is important is that we produce a charter that is
have played significant roles in the fight for women’s rights
shared with all individuals and agencies concerned with
and political participation.
reviewing the constitution and drafting electoral laws
to ensure accountability to women’s demands for equity This committee worked with me tirelessly to ensure that
and equality. The charter will also help us coordinate our this convention is representative of all Somali women. I
efforts. On the third, closing day of this conference, we thank members of that committee for their hard work and
will present a copy of the charter to the Prime Minister. dedication.
During the two years that I have led this Ministry, we

“
have managed to develop the Child Rights Bill as well as
the Sexual Offenses Bill. The latter is currently with the
parliament after being passed by cabinet. I am requesting
the acting speaker of the parliament to make the Sexual
The reason for convening Offenses Bill the first item to be passed once parliamentary
sessions are reconvened.
this convention at this time Especially in view of the increasing incidents of rape
is that there are opportunities taking place in the country, what is required is a strong
law. It is the duty of parliament to revise and review all of
for women’s rights, such as the laws that are brought to them. We strongly remind you

the review of the constitution, to pass this bill as soon as possible.

We are also about to complete the drafting of the law
which women must seize. against FGM. In addition we have started developing a
disability act. With the understanding that people living
with disabilities are full citizens whose rights must be

12 somali women’s convention report

 Gamal Mohamed Hassan
Minister of Planning, Investment and Economic
Development

equally protected, this government is determined to I would like to comment on the role that Minister Deqa
complete the formation of the disability agency. Yasin has played in her role as the Minister of Women and
The bill for its establishment was the first bill signed by Human Rights Development. When this government was
the president last year. All of these legal instruments constituted, we developed a National Development Plan.
are intended to lay the foundation for the wellbeing and But that plan lacked a pillar related to the development of
protection of women and people living with disability. women’s issues. When Minister Deqa Yasin found out about
this, she asked for the inclusion of this pillar in the National
Today, we are determined that women’s rights should
Development Plan. Since that pillar was adopted, the
not regress. Their level of representation in parliament,
development of Somali women is part and parcel of every
currently 24%, should not decrease. The President and
development project in this country.
the Prime Minister are highly dedicated to support us in
women’s development. I would also like to thank men Women ministers in our cabinet play a more significant role
who are members of the cabinet who always support me than their male counterparts. I would also like to commend
in our work. the role of the many other women who have fought for
women’s rights in Somalia. I do not think that opponents
This convention brings together women from all
would have easily given up their positions if women had
sectors of the society, such as the business community,
not fought.
journalists, security personnel, both from within the
country and from the diaspora. Also in attendance are I would also like to urge parliament to pass the Sexual
ministers from the federal member states. Offences Bill as soon as possible. For a woman to be raped
and tortured and killed and the perpetrators not brought
Our aim for this convention is the adoption of a women’s
to justice underlines the dire situation of the country. I
charter that will outline the needs of women and
commend the efforts that the Federal Member State of
their demands, such as the inclusion of unambiguous
Puntland has made so far but I emphasize that there is a
provisions defining women’s rights and representation
long way to go. There are many women who are being
in the constitution. In this undertaking we build on
discriminated against, raped, ill-treated in all parts of the
a long history of women working for the rights of all
country and whose stories are never heard.
Somali women and girls. Many of these leaders have
since passed away and cannot be with us here today. I Somalia just became a member of the United Nation’s
would like to thank these women for their service and Human Rights Council for the first time. I congratulate
the inspiration they give us today. They are always with Minister Deqa for this achievement. We are with you and
us in spirit. always on your side.

“
I would like to urge parliament
to pass the Sexual Offences Bill
as soon as possible.

Gamal Mohamed Hassan, Minister of Planning, Investment and Economic

Development

13
Khadija Mohamed Diriye
Minister of Youth and Sports, Federal Government of Somalia

This day is very important to me as a woman. That is why As women, we should also support the security of the
I cancelled an official business trip to ensure I could attend region by collaborating with security agencies. We
this opening ceremony and this conference. should not accept that we get locked up indoors out of
fear and intimidation. That would mean giving up. I urge
This convention is taking place at the right time. The
the regional administration and the security agencies to
development of women and youth are priorities of the
involve women in the stabilization process, particularly
government led by President Mohamed Abdullahi
for Mogadishu.
Farmaajo and Premier Hassan Ali Khaire. The
government of Premier Khaire is the first government in I would like to congratulate Somali women for their
both pre and post-conflict Somalia that has put women courage and achievements, wherever they are, in
in charge of six full ministries, although women’s advance of international women’s day.
demands for their rightful quota have always been on

“
the table. This would not have been possible without the
commitment of President Farmaajo and Premier Khaire.
The combination of human rights and women’s affairs
in the portfolio of Minister Deqa is an indication of
this government’s view that the promotion of women’s
rights are at the center of human rights. Although I am
As members of society constituting
a Minister, too, as a woman, Minister Deqa Yasin is our over half of the population, we
leader and our minister.
deserve that you listen to our calls
We are asking members of the two houses of parliament
to pass laws relevant to women’s rights as speedily as and demands seriously.
possible. We urge them to cooperate on this matter.
As members of society constituting over half of the
population, we deserve that you listen to our calls and
demands seriously. And as women, we should knock all
doors in in order to lobby for these laws.
In particular it is time that the houses of parliament go
forward and pass the Sexual Offences Bill before them.
We can no longer tolerate the constant tragedy affecting
women while we look on. We urge religious scholars to
support these laws. We want their religious wisdom and
messages. As delegates to this convention, I urge you to
include statements calling for the passing of these laws
on women’s rights in the Women’s Charter you will be
developing. I also call for the two houses of the parliament
to strengthen their cooperation to ensure these goals can
be achieved.

Khadija Mohamed Diriye, Minister of Youth and Sports, Federal Government of

Somalia

14 somali women’s convention report

Mahad Abdalla Awad
Deputy Speaker of the House of the People

Today is not yet women’s day. It will take place this coming I would encourage that business women should also be
Friday, 8th March. However, I would suggest that this given their due consideration. They should be gathered
week is legally established as the week of Somali Women. and encouraged to contribute to the reconstruction of
the country. Women professionals such as doctors and
The fight for women’s rights has been a long a journey.
lawyers should also have their own associations and such
Many women have taken part in it. In 2012, during
associations should be supported. Women’s important
Garowe I and Garowe II conference delegates first agreed
roles in all of these areas need support and attention.
on a 20 % quota for women and then increased it to 30 %.
This is how the women’s quota began.
However, when the traditional leaders met, they vowed to
fight the women’s quota. Instead of 30%, they allowed only
14% for woman. Some of the clans refused completely to
include women in their share.
Later on, the current Minister for Women and Human
Rights Development, Minister Deqa, was appointed as the
Deputy chairperson of the FEIT (Federal Electoral Indirect
Team committee and she fought for the women’s quota in
the 2016 Election. At one point, she was even attacked at
her hotel and sustained minor injuries. She did not give
up, but still continued to fight for the women’s quota, even
while in hospital.
As the lists compiled by member states, clans and other
groups were repeatedly rejected, the quota of women Mahad Abdalla Awad, Deputy Speaker of the House of the People
was finally increased to 24%. Considering where we

“
started, this is quite a substantial proportion. In 2004,
the Transitional Federal Charter for the Somali Republic
provided that the women’s quota in the Transitional
Federal Parliament should be 12%. However, in practice,
that ratio decreased to 7%. That is what we started from.
In terms of women’s representation in federal parliament,
We should acknowledge those
Somalia is in a good position at the moment. We should women who have fought for
acknowledge those women who have fought for women’s
political participation. Their names and sacrifices should women’s political participation.
be recorded and taught to future generations.
Their names and sacrifices
Now it is time to also look at other areas. How many
women are in the civil service? What about the armed
should be recorded and taught
forces? The Provisional Constitution of 2012 says that to future generations.
women should be given consideration in the recruitment
of military personnel. It is the first time that a female
general becomes the deputy commissioner of the armed
forces. Women are honest. It is not likely that they would
take bribes from Al-Shabaab and others.

15
The late Eng. Abdirahman Omar Osman Yarisow Caasha Khaliif Mohamed
Mayor of Mogadishu Minister of Women and Human Rights
Development, Hirshabelle State of Somalia

Somalia mourns the loss of Eng. Abdirahman Omar Osman I would like to salute all of the women who have gathered
Yarisow, Mayor of Mogadishu, a leader in Somalia’s recovery here today and hope that you will produce a unanimous
and a champion for women’s rights. May peace be upon him. Somali Women’s Charter that will help the next generation
of our women and girls. Women are the backbone of this
I would like to congratulate Minister Deqa Yasin for
world. I hope that we will solve our shared problems as
realizing that it is the right time to bring Somali women
women first. And that we will seek our quota so that we
together to deliberate on issues that concern them.
can become visible in our society. I also hope that we
Including women living with disabilities as attendees of
become a role model for the Somali society. Women are
the convention is also a significant step and I commend the
the foundation of Somali society and all other nations.
Minister for this.
Somali women are those who saved the lives of the children
Over the next three days, there is a very important agenda when civil war broke out in our country. Women are
in front of you. You will discuss the role you can take in the those who fled the country to protect their children from
advancement of women’s rights, women’s development the war. Women who went abroad also protected Somali
and the development of the country in general. I urge communities by sending back remittances every month.
you to take leadership on these agendas for women’s Many women continued their education and obtained
empowerment and take advantage of the opportunities that degrees while in diaspora, building their capacities to help
are provided to you. promote peace and prosperity in Somalia upon their return.
I am confident that the outcomes you will achieve at this Given the important contributions that women can and do
convention will be significant. I would like to assure you the make to the country’s development, we need the Federal
support of Benadir Regional Administration with whatever Government of Somalia and the Federal Member States
possible while this convention is in progress. to give women their appropriate role in peacebuilding
and reconstruction in the whole country. We need a fair

“
representation of women in the political sphere and all
areas of decision-making. We need justice for victims of
rape, including for Aisha Ilyas who was recently raped and
murdered in Galkayo. We have to oppose the traditional
I urge you to take leadership justice system of the country that does not help women
and rape victims anymore. We as Hirshabelle women fully
on these agendas for women’s support this convention, an opportunity for women to
discuss their situation and produce a shared Charter, as our
empowerment and take advantage Minister Deqa Yasin told us. We have to unite our efforts to
of the opportunities that are address the challenges women have been facing fort he past
three decades and secure our full quota for decision-making
provided to you. positions in the country.

The late Eng. Abdirahman Omar Osman Yarisow, Mayor of Mogadishu Caasha Khaliif Mohamed, Minister of Women and Human Rights Development,
Hirshabelle State of Somalia

16 somali women’s convention report

Hawa Yusuf Ahmed
Member of the House of the People, Chairperson Gender,
Human Rights and Humanitarian Committee

It is an honor for me to attend this national consultative I also urge religious scholars to give this bill the priority
convention, which brings together women from all it deserves. Violations occur everyday and this law is
the different regions and from abroad. The aim of required throughout the country to curb these violations.
this convention is for women to discuss their shared
I am deeply sorry about the horrible rape cases that have
concerns, short term and long-term goals.
been taking place recently, in particular the case of Aisha
It is imperative that our convention focuses on key issues from Galkayo. I call for the perpetrators to be brought to
of concern to women, such as the difficult situation justice.
they endure in the country, and how to secure their

“
basic rights such as education, health, economy, political
representation and participation in the public sphere.
We also have to fight issues that violate the rights of
women such as rape, FGM, early marriage, sexual
exploitation and all forms of gender discrimination. The I urge you to unite against
increasing number of inhumane actions committed
against Somali women are causing pain to all Somali common challenges that you
women.
face. We constitute at least
If women are not empowered, our society cannot
succeed because mothers are the teachers of the family. 50% of the society. If we unite,
If women are not empowered, society will regress and
generations of lost children will join our society.
support one another and
I urge the women here to be aware that you have no
stand together, we are going
advocate to represent you. You are your only advocates. to succeed.
So I urge you to unite against common challenges that
you face. We constitute at least 50% of the society. If we
unite, support one another and stand together, we are
going to succeed. So we must overcome minor issues that
divide us. You should be aware that you are a separate
clan, and not a member of any of the other clans. That
means we should support women who are in office.
Rarely is a woman in office replaced by another woman.
It is always men. That is the result of our lack of unity.
I hope that this convention will result in tangible points
for action. We should also select convention delegates
who will take leadership in the implementation of the
outcomes of this convention.
I assure you that we are going to pass the Sexual
Offences Bill, which is currently at the house of the
people of the parliament. The minister should be given
the chance to read the bill in front of the parliament so
that they can deliberate on it.
Hawa Yusuf Ahmed, Member of the House of the People, Chairperson Gender,
Human Rights and Humanitarian Committee

17
Peter de Clercq
UNSOM, Officer in Charge and DSRSG

I would like to thank Honorable Minister Deqa Yasin for I have worked in Somalia enough to know that Somali
organizing this very important event. We should not only women do not need to be reminded what to do and how to
welcome the Somali women but also the Somali men in do it. They know.
attendance. I would like to urge my brothers here that,
As the United Nations, I would like to point out that we are
when we leave here, we leave with a charter in support
100% supportive of Minister Deqa’s initiatives.
of women’s cause in a country where 100% of traditional
leadership are men. Long live Somalia, Long Live Somali Women.

“
I would like to express my appreciation and admiration
for women leaders who have shown dedication for the
stabilization of this country, and who have pursued peace
throughout the period of conflict.
Significant progress has been made in increasing the
representation of women in the government and
I would like to express my
parliament. And the achievement of 24% for women in appreciation and admiration for
parliament is a great sign of progress.
But we have to go beyond the numbers. We should
women leaders who have shown
ask ourselves: are women being given the power and dedication for the stabilization
influence they need in decision-making?
of this country, and who have
The representation of women in the Federal Member
States is much lower than that of the federal government. pursued peace throughout the
I urge the federal government and member states to
collaborate in ensuring that women’s representation at
period of conflict.
that level is significantly improved.
I would also like to talk about the women’s parliamentary
caucuses in both houses. They are extremely important.
For example, women there can use their 24% proportion to
influence laws that benefit women and young girls in this
country and advance their agenda. And I hope that the
women caucus will unite around these issues.
The recent horrible events in this country remind us
that we have to come together and put in place a legal
framework that makes it possible for the perpetrators to
be prosecuted.
The deliberation over the next few days can bring us
far closer to the development of a Women’s Charter
which will enable women in the government, women
parliamentarians to move the concerns of women
forward. So, I urge for a Women’s Charter to be adopted at
the end of this convention.
Peter de Clercq, UNSOM, Officer in Charge and DSRSG
My hope is that women will find strong common points,
strong common interests to move their concerns forward.
To use their influence as 50% of the population.

18 somali women’s convention report

Thematic Sessions

Introduction and Summary of Key Themes

The thematic sessions of the conference focused on several

key areas that affect the lives of women and girls and
their ability to actively contribute to sustainable peace
and development in Somalia. These included women’s
constitutional rights; women’s political participation;
women’s economic empowerment; women, climate change
and resilience; justice for women and girls; innovation and
women pioneers; and sexual and gender-based violence
and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
Each session was opened by a panel discussion between
experts and leaders in the field, which were live-streamed
and reported on social media to a total audience of 207149.
The sessions served to provide an overview of key issues
in the respective areas of interest Following each opening
Sign featuring the official motto of the convention: “Somali Women’s Convention:
panel, delegates further debated key issues in group Forging Alliances to Safeguard Everyone’s Rights”.
discussions and deliberated on critical points and demands
to be featured in the Women’s Charter. To provide a
basis for discussion, an initial draft for the Charter was Participants emphasized that the constitution review as
developed by an inclusive Steering Group of women leaders well as the development of electoral and political party
who had made – and are making – critical contributions laws provide key windows of opportunity to promote and
to the promotion of women’s rights and empowerment in institutionalize women’s rights and empowerment.
government, parliament, civil society, the media and the To seize this opportunity, women have to stand united and
private sector, both at the national level and in the Federal actively mobilize. They should also be represented in bodies
Member States. During group discussion, facilitators charged with the constitution review.
solicited participants’ feedback on this initial draft.
Delegates called for Somalia’s constitution to fully promote
Following group discussion, participants reported back to and protect women’s rights. In particular they demanded
plenary on key issues and demands to be featured in the that the constitution provide for women to take up 50%
Women’s Charter. The draft Charter was continuously of all elected and appointed position, including in politics,
revised throughout the conference to reflect these inputs. the civil service, the military and the judiciary. This quota
At the end of the Convention, Hon. Deqa Yasin, Minister should be included in clear and specific language.
of Women and Human Rights Development, presented the
Participants also called for electoral and political party laws
final demands of the Charter in front of all the convention
to fully promote women’s political participation, including
delegates and handed the document over to the Prime
by reflecting this quota. To ensure women’s political
Minister.
participation as Somalia moves towards a multi-party
Throughout the discussions, delegates agreed that women system, women’s representation in political parties must be
are the backbone of Somali society. During conflict, women strengthened significantly. Delegates noted that women’s
sustained communities and became breadwinners for most presence in political institutions is only a first step.
Somali families. The empowerment of women is key to the Female politicians must then be empowered to effectively
development of Somalia, the progress of its economy and influence decision-making and promote a gender equality
good governance. and women’s empowerment agenda. Women must stand
united and hold all MPs to account for passing gender
equity and equality legislation.

19
 Delegates expressed concern that Somalia’s history of
civil war and emergencies has increased the severity of
sexual and gender-based violence and other violations
experienced by women.
The tradition and culture of protecting women, ‘Biri ma
geyso’ has been eroded. Participants emphasized that FGM
and sexual and gender-based violence are not in line with
Islam and Somali culture. Men and boys are also affected by
sexual and gender-based violence and must be part of the
solution.
Delegates called for the passage of the Sexual Offences Bill
(SOB), and other legislation on gender-based violence and
FGM as the first priority in addressing sexual and gender-
A young participant points to a conference sign reading: “The first priority of the based violence in Somalia. They urged civil society, religious
government is to ensure women’s equal participation in politics.”
leaders, government, women and men to join forces to
lobby for the passing of the SOB. In particular, they called
for parliament to play its role in passing the legislation to
Participants emphasized that women’s economic protect Somalis from sexual and gender-based violence.
empowerment is critical to the future of Somalia,
Delegates emphasized that the law must supersede all
contributing directly to the countries’ economy from the
traditional and cultural practices that harm women’s rights.
level of the family to the national level.
They also noted the urgent need to build the capacity of
Women’s innovative ideas can make an important the justice sector to respond to women’s specific concerns,
contribution to the advancement of Somalia and to including by increasing the level of women’s representation
the resilience of its people, if adequately promoted and in the justice sector.
protected. To advance women’s economic empowerment
and their roles in businesses, women must have access to
loans, investment and government contracts. Delegates
also highlighted the need for laws that promote and
protect women’s role in business, innovation and
the economy. Women should be given a quota in the
leadership of businesses, and take on a greater role in
the ministries and public agencies concerned with the
economy.
Delegates agreed that changing climate and
environmental conditions have serious impacts on
Somali society and require urgent attention from all
stakeholders. These changes have distinct and important
effects on women and girls, including by undermining
their health and access to education. At the same time,
women can be part of the solution and make important Conference delegates during the opening of the convention.
contributions in diminishing the impact of climate
change. Women should be empowered to participate
in decision-making about responses to climate change
and the development of more effective coping strategies
leading to increased resilience.

20 somali women’s convention report

Hibo Yassin shares lessons from the drafting of the Provisional Constitution as part of the opening panel for Session 1.

Session 1.
The Somalia Provisional Constitution Reviewed Through a Gender Lens

Background and Introduction

Somalia is in the process of revising its constitution. Drawing on popular participation, the review is led by the Ministry
of Constitutional Affairs in collaboration with the Oversight Committee of the Federal Parliament and an Independent
Constitutional Review and Implementation Commission. The review is to conclude with a popular vote in 2020. Somalia
currently uses a Provisional Constitution adopted in 2012. While this document includes a number of gender equality
provisions, important gaps remain. In particular, the Provisional Constitution stopped short of enshrining one of the key
demands of the Somali women’s movement: a quota for women’s representation in public institutions. In this context,
women’s leaders have highlighted the constitutional review as a unique opening to secure women’s rights. Through
panel and group discussion, the first session of the Convention provided an opportunity to assess what has been
achieved for women’s rights in the constitution review so far and which areas must be strengthened.

Panelists

Dr. Hussein Abdi Elmi Hibo Yassin Halima Jama

Deputy Minister for Constitutional Head of Policy, Communication and Civil society representative, founding
Affairs Fundraising Unit, IIDA Women’s member of The Somali Women Agenda
Development Organisation (SWA) and former member of the
Constitution Committee

21
 “
In introductory remarks, the chair of the discussion, Cabdisataar Maxamed Geelle,
(Director of Secretariat and Intergovernmental Affairs, Office of the President,
Federal Republic of Somalia) highlighted that, following a long history of conflict,
women make up more than 50 % of society and head many households. The Human rights are one of the
constitution review provides an important opportunity to promote their rights priorities of the government.
and empowerment. The main objective of the Women’s Convention is to bring This includes the protection
women on board and up to speed so that they, too, can provide inputs and secure of the rights of women, who
their rights in the on-going process.
are the backbone of the
Deputy Minister for Constitutional Affairs Dr. Hussein Abdi Elmi emphasized Somali society.
that human rights are one of the priorities of the government - and that this
includes the protection of the rights of women, who are the backbone of the
Somali society. The government has the responsibility to protect the whole society
and to ensure that all laws are adhered to. It is important that Somali
The Deputy Minister commended the Minister of Women and Human Rights
women become aware
Development, H.E. Deqa Yasin, for initiating the Women’s Convention. He of – and involved in – the
emphasized that it is important that Somali women become aware of - and constitutional process…The
involved in - the constitutional process. opportunity women have
The Deputy Minister recalled that women have organized and made important today to promote their rights
contributions to the constitution-making process, which resulted in the current is special.
provisional constitution. However, one of the main objectives of women’s
Dr. Hussein Abdi Elmi, Deputy Minister for
mobilization, affirmative action that would ensure their inclusion in appointed
Constitutional Affairs
and elected positions, was not included in the revised constitution agreed in 2012.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that the role of the Ministry of Constitutional
Affairs is not to draft the constitution themselves, but to present issues to society
and provide citizens with the opportunity to create their constitution. He called
for women to get ready to participate in the review process, which will take
place in all member states. Once the collecting of views is completed, the draft
constitution will go to a popular vote. The Deputy Minister emphasized that the
opportunity women have today to promote their rights is special. In 2012, the
window of opportunity was not as large. Today, there are more opportunities for
participation, more consultations and openings to interact with the Ministry and
The Bill of Rights of the
other government agencies concerned with reviewing the constitution.
Provisional constitution
Hibo Yassin reflected on the drafting of the Provisional Constitution in 2012
reflects some of women’s
and lessons learned in this context, on behalf of IIDA Women’s Development
Organization (IIDA), the Somali Women’s Agenda (SWA) and other like-minded
demands very well.
CSOs. In particular, she retraced the steps these organizations took to influence However, one of the key
the process. Their journey began in 2005 when they volunteered and were demands raised by the
nominated, through the efforts of their international partners, to be part of the women’s movement was
Somali peace and state building process taking place in Kenya at that time. At this
conspicuously missing
juncture, the peace process had birthed the Transitional Federal Charter (TFC)
that replaced the 2000 Transitional National Charter (TNC). The TFC established in the final text: the quota
the Transitional Federal Government (TFG), the Transitional Federal Parliament for women. Nevertheless,
(TFP) and the Transitional Federal Constitutional Commission (FCC) - later one of the lessons from
renamed as the Independent Federal Constitutional Commission (IFCC), that was the development of the
tasked with the responsibility of drafting the Federal Constitution.
Provisional Constitution
Although the IFCC work suffered significant delays, IIDA, SWA and like-minded is that progress on gender
CSOs never faltered in their faith in the process. They lobbied to have women
equality and women’s rights
representation increased in the 15 member IFCC, which only comprised two
women initially. Following the expansion of the TFP membership to 550 in line can be achieved if supported
with the 2008 11-point Djibouti Framework agreement, they took advantage of by effective, pro-active
the opportunity and lobbied for more women to be included in the now to be mobilization.
expanded IFCC. This was done with the support of strong personalities in the
Hibo Yassin, Head of Policy, Communication and
Somali Government that joined their cause, such as Hon. Fauzia, then Minister Fundraising Unit, IIDA Women’s Development
of Women and Family Affairs, and the late Hon. Madoobe Nunow, Minister Organisation

22 somali women’s convention report

of Constitution Affairs. The team also brought on board H.E. Omar Abdirashid
Sharmarke, then Prime Minister of Somalia. Thanks to all of these concerted
efforts the members of the IFCC were joined by seven additional women, one of
whom (Hon. Sarah Omar) was elected as the Chairperson of the expanded IFCC.
During the Kampala peace process, the civil society group went on to support
120 Somali CSOs, networks and movements of women and men to come and
voice their ideas. Likeminded CSO networks presented memoranda on key issues
to be included in the post-transition governance architecture of Somalia. Their
participation, throughout the (Garowe I, Garowe II and Galkayo) peace processes
and agreements also helped to define the space for women representation in
Somalia. During Garowe II, the team of likeminded CSOs were part of the core
group that successfully lobbied and petitioned to have women representation
increased from 20%–30%. Indeed, by August 2012 when the IFCC released a
preliminary Consultation Draft Constitution (CDC), many of these gains had
already been inserted into the draft document. The civil society group then
supported IFCC to carry out civic education and public consultation on CDC. They
also worked with experts to perform gender audits of the draft document, while
other experts tested the draft constitution for compliance with Islamic principles,
democracy and social justice. As a result, the team was able to highlight a few
discrepancies in the draft document and prepared a report, which was handed
over to the IFCC. Hibo Yassin noted that some of their suggestions were included
in the Provisional Constitution that still governs the Federal Republic of Somalia
to date. During the National Constituent Assembly, in August 2012, her civil
society team was also present to deliberate and polish the Provisional Constitution
for adoption.
Hibo Yassin concluded that their success had only been possible because they
managed, over the years, to gain the trust of the people they represent, which in
turn had made it possible for those charged with the responsibility of drafting
the constitution to have faith in their work. The civil society coalition stepped
forward and volunteered to be part of the constitution- making journey at a
time when few people could muster the courage to stand up. While many of
women’s demands were reflected in the Provisional Constitution, one of their
key demands was however conspicuously missing in the final text: the quota for
women. Nevertheless, one of the lessons from this process is that progress on
gender equality and women’s rights can be achieved if supported by effective,

“
pro-active mobilization. Hibo Yassin noted that, while there is currently only
one woman in the constitution committee, the Ministry is very supportive of
women’s mobilization. She emphasized that civil society stands ready to support
the Ministry in any way possible, including through their capacity to engage with
the grassroots in all regions. In a project called ‘Heshiis Bulsho’ (Social Contract), Women’s fair
IIDA Women’s Development Organization is working to bring together civil representation in politics
society members from different regions of the country to deliberate on the draft
constitution and develop joint inputs to be shared with the Ministry.
is key to the development
of Somalia, the progress of
Discussing targets in terms of women’s rights in the constitution going forward,
its economy and the key
Halima Jama (founding member of The Somali Women Agenda (SWA) and
former member of the Constitution Committee) emphasized that women’s fair to good governance. The
representation in politics is key to the development of Somalia, the progress of its review of the constitution
economy and the key to good governance. She emphasized that the review of the is a great opportunity to
constitution is a great opportunity to advance women’s rights and participation – advance this objective –
an opportunity that will not always be available. The constitution is still a draft,
it has not been passed. The development of the draft must therefore be watched
an opportunity that will
closely to ensure women’s rights provisions currently integrated are not dropped, not always be available.
while working to extend them further. Halima Yama concluded: “if we do this, Halima Jama, former member of the
there will be just power sharing, prosperity and peace.” Constitution Committee

23
 “
The federal constitution
and those of the federal
member states should be in
accordance with each other
in the full promotion and
protection of women’s rights.
Conclusion by conference delegates in group
discussion

Conference participants discuss key demands for women’s rights in working group.

In discussion between the panel and the audience, participants similarly called
for the constitution to provide a quota for women’s participation. They also
emphasized the need to ensure that political parties subsequently follow the
quota as Somalia moves from the current 4.5. clan system to a multi-party one.
Participants noted that the clan system has posed a key obstacle to women’s
participation in decision-making and called for the constitution to help Somalia
move away from the clan system. Participants and panelists emphasized the need
to promote the representation of women with disabilities in particular.
During breakout groups, participants concluded that the Women’s Charter
produced at the conference should call for the inclusion of a women’s quota in
the immutable principles of the constitution. Specifically, the constitution should
provide for women to be granted 50% of all elected and appointed positions,
including in parliament and other political institutions, the military, the civil
service and the judiciary. They noted that constitutional articles related to the
women’s quota should be written in clear language, which is not open to different
interpretations. They emphasized that the constitution is the only channel
through which women can obtain their quota. They affirmed their determination
to work together to seize this important window of opportunity and to ensure
affirmative action is subsequently reflected in other regulations to be passed by
parliament, including the Electoral and Political Party Law.
Participants further called for the constitution to promote and protect the rights
of vulnerable groups such as those with disabilities, minority groups, youth
and children – and for this demand to be reflected in the Charter. Participants
noted that women are still considered second-class citizens and the need for the
Women’s Charter to recall that women are full citizens, just like men.
Participants highlighted that, to ensure their demands for women’s rights are
realized, educated, capable women should be included in the Independent
Provisional Constitution Review and Implementation Commission, tasked to
oversee the review of the Provisional Constitution. They also highlighted the
urgent need for women and all Convention delegates to unite behind their joint
demands and support them with courage and determination.

24 somali women’s convention report

This includes young women, who can make an important contribution in the
promotion of women’s affairs, and women representatives in the house of the
people and upper house of parliament who must come together to ensure the
quota becomes a reality and leads to women’s effective influence. Delegates called
for the Women’s Charter to affirm women’s unity around issues that concern
them.
Participants also demanded for funds to be established to finance lobbying
for women’s issues and the quota in the constitution, and to secure their
implementation. Participants moreover flagged that they should conduct a review
of the draft constitution, studying every article of the constitution through the
lens of women’s rights. They recommended that once the constitution is finalized,
a women’s committee or other agency should be set up to ensure that the women’s
quota is effectively implemented. Participants emphasized that the federal
constitution and those of the federal member states should be in accordance with
each other in the full promotion and protection of women’s rights.

“
The constitution should
provide for women to be
granted 50 % of all elected
and appointed positions,
including in parliament and
other political institutions,
the military, the civil service
and the judiciary.
Conclusion by conference delegates in group
discussion

Breakout groups deliberating on main points to be included in the Somali Women’s Charter.

Summary of Key Themes of the Discussion:

• Women are the backbone of Somali society and their empowerment is key to the development of Somalia, the
progress of its economy and good governance.

• The constitution review provides a key window of opportunity to promote women’s rights and empowerment.

• To seize this opportunity, women have to stand united and actively mobilize. They must also meaningfully
participate in bodies charged with the constitution review.

• Somalia’s constitution should fully promote and protect women’s rights.

• In clear and specific language, the constitution should provide for women to take up 50 % of all elected and
appointed positions, including in politics, the civil service, the military and the judiciary.

• Particular attention is needed to protect the rights of vulnerable groups of women and girls, such as those living with
disabilities, those from minority groups, as well as youth and children.

25
A conference participant representing Somali youth poses a question to the session’s opening panel.

Session 2.
Women’s Political Participation

Background and Introduction

Somalia is currently developing Electoral and Political Party Laws, which will govern the country’s first one-person
one-vote elections in 2020/21 and move Somalia from a clan-based to a multi-party political system. These processes
provide important opportunities to enshrine women’s full participation in the foundations of Somalia’s political system.
In this context, Somalia can build on the experience of the 2016 elections, where women attained 24 % of seats in
parliament, up from 12 % in previous elections. However, in contrast to this level of representation in parliament, the
participation of women in leadership and decision-making across the different federal member states and other
decision-making bodies remains limited. What is more, the increase in women’s parliamentary representation in the
2016 federal elections largely resulted from a political commitment to women’s representation at the time, rather than
binding, enduring legal provisions. While the Provisional Constitution adopted in 2012 provides that “women must be
included, in an effective way, in all national institutions” (Article 3(5)), what is ‘effective’ remains open to interpretation.
In this context, the second thematic session of the Somalia Women’s Convention provided an opportunity to review
challenges and opportunities for women’s political participation in Somalia through panel and group discussion.

Panelists

Halima Ismail Asha Gelle Adam Matan

Chair, National Independent Electoral Former member and inaugural chair of OBE, Founder Anti-Tribalism Movement, a
Commission, Federal Republic of the Independent Constitutional Review non-profit organization addressing effects
Somalia and Implementation Commission tasked of tribalism within communities, and
to oversee the review of the Provisional recipient of an order of the British Empire
Constitution, politician and civil society award (‘Officer of the Most Excellent Order
activist, former Minister of Women of the British Empire’ (OBE))
Development and Family Affairs for
Puntland State

26 somali women’s convention report

 “
Mrs. Asha Gelle, former member of the Independent Constitutional Review and
Implementation Commission tasked to oversee the review of the Provisional
Constitution, began by recounting some of the history of women’s public
participation in Somalia. She highlighted that as the condition of the country and After the outbreak of civil
Somali society changed, women’s challenges as well as platforms available to them war, women’s roles in society
also changed. During Siyad Barre’s government, women used the government- changed. Many became
backed Somali Mother’s Association (Ururka Hooyooyinka Soomaaliyeed), which
family breadwinners, in
served as an umbrella that brought Somali women together and provided an
opportunity for them to participate in public life. After the outbreak of the civil
addition to performing their
war and the collapse of the central government, women’s roles in society changed. traditional tasks as mothers
Many became family breadwinners, in addition to performing their traditional and daughters.
tasks as mothers and daughters. During this period, one approach that women
used to address their challenges was to form women’s civil society organizations
and networks in the South, Central, Puntland and Somaliland regions. Some
of these organizations played active roles in women’s affairs. Following the
One reason why the
formation of semi-autonomous regional administration, ministries dedicated to Provisional Constitution
women’s affairs were formed under the regional state administrations of Puntland, does not explicitly provide
Somaliland and others in South Central. This was a way for women to address for the quota for women
their concerns until a stable effective government could be achieved in Somalia.
is that all members of
Mrs. Asha Gelle noted that the clan system is one of the mechanisms by which the Constitution-making
opponents of women’s political participation suppress women’s voice. She
Committee were men.
highlighted that after a long and relentless struggle, advocates managed to get
men to commit to a 30 % quota for women in the context of the 2016 elections. Ms. Asha Gelle, former member of the
Independent Constitutional Review and
Despite this approval, male decision-makers challenged women to get the approval Implementation Commission
of their respective clans as well. Asha Gelle highlighted that one reason why the
Provisional Constitution does not explicitly provide for the quota for women is the
lack of women’s representation in the constitution-making committee that was
charged with developing the Provisional Constitution. Based on this experience,
she urged women to rally behind and support the Minister of Women and Human
Rights Development, Minister Deqa, Yasin who is working relentlessly to ensure
One of the key issues
women’s voices are heard in all public spheres. Finally, Asha Gelle expressed her influencing women’s
disappointment (and that of Somali women) with those women in parliament who political participation is their
fail to advance the agenda of the women they represent. As an example she cited representation in political
the bid of two women MPs for the post of Deputy Speaker of Parliament who
parties as the country is
received only few votes.
moving to a multi-party
Picking up on this point, Halima Ismail, the Chairwoman of the National system. So far, we have
Independent Electoral Commission, argued that women should learn from this
incident. Women should not only focus on numbers but also consider the quality
registered 39 political parties.
of the women who are to represent Somali women. She illustrated this assertion Only one party has a female
with the Election Commission, which she chairs. Though women constitute only chairperson, the National
two out of the nine commissioners, according to Ismail, they have been successful Democratic Party led by
in amplifying women’s voices in their work.
Honourable Fowsiya Xaaji
The Chairwoman noted that one of the key issues influencing women’s political Aaadan. I think there are
participation in both the short and long-term is their representation in political only two parties that have
parties, as the country is moving to a multi-party system. Although the Election
Commission ensures that the women’s quota is respected by requiring all political
either a female deputy or
parties to be registered to ensure that at least 30% of their top leadership are general secretary. In other
women, so far the country’s registered political parties are mainly dominated by words, political parties are
men. The Chairwoman also highlighted that the current parliament poses one of exclusively dominated by
the obstacles in the passing of laws that promote women’s political participation.
men. That is an indication of
She urged women, those in the government, members of civil society and
businesswomen, to lobby for such legislation among MPs and senators and ensure
the status of women in terms
that laws promoting gender equality and women’s participation are passed. Finally, of their political participation.
she reported that the Commission has set up its own gender unit, which is in Halima Ismail, Chairwoman, National Independent
charge of promoting women’s participation in the coming general elections in the Electoral Commission
country.
27
 “
Adam Matan spoke further to the challenges that Somali women face today
in participating in politics, noting that the first set of obstacles relates to the
constitution and other laws of the country. The biggest concern in this area, he
noted, is that, although women were allocated a share of seats in parliament in the The biggest concern
last elections, this quota is not included in the current constitution or in any of the for women’s political
other laws of the country. He called for the women’s quota to be included in the participation is that the
constitution, electoral and other laws in unambiguous language that is not open to
women’s quota is not
different interpretations. According to Adam Matan, the second challenge is posed
by the transition from the 4.5 clan-based system to a multi-party-political system. included in the current
In this context the challenge is how to sustain the level of representation of constitution or in any of the
women that was achieved through the 4.5 system within the new system marked other laws of the country.
by political parties. Women, and men who support them, he argued, should unite The women’s quota must be
in ensuring that the new system does not deny the women’s quota or reduce it
provided for in the revised
from what has been achieved so far.
constitution, electoral and
The third challenge that women face today, according to Adam Matan, is the use
other laws in unambiguous
of religion to deny women’s rights. He attributed this to the fact that all religious
scholars are men who interpret religious texts from their male perspectives. language that is not open to
In order to overcome such misguided interpretations, Adam Matan suggested different interpretations.
women should also become religious scholars themselves. Finally, Mr. Adam Adam Matan OBE, Founder Anti-Tribalism
Matan pointed out that Somali women lack a strong feminist ideology that drives Movement
their activism and underpins all their work. He highlighted the need to develop
shared agendas and ideological foundations that unite women and drive their
activism. Such ideologies, according to Adam Matan, can be used to overcome the
limitations that clan sets on women. He also noted that this would increase the
likelihood that women who advance the women’s agenda are elected to represent
women. Men would surely elect any women to meet the criteria of the women’s
quota – but these women would not necessarily be the ones who have the capacity
to represent women and work to advance the women’s agenda. To conclude, Mr.
Adam Matan reminded delegates that it is their responsibility to take the Charter
to every Somali woman and every house so that people will learn about it.

Opportunities for women’s

political participation
include the fact that
large numbers of female
politicians are prepared
and interested to participate
in public decision-making,
despite the many challenges
involved.
Outcome of group discussion among delegates

Conference participants discuss their demands for women’ rights in group work.

28 somali women’s convention report

 “
During group discussion, participants noted that a key challenge in advancing
women’s political participation is the lack of awareness of women’s capacities
and contributions among many male gatekeepers. As a result, male politicians
are often opposed to women joining their ranks. Opportunities for women’s The constitution, electoral
political participation include the fact that large numbers of female politicians and political party laws must
are prepared and interested to participate in public decision-making, despite the provide concrete measures
many challenges involved. Importantly, women can also build on their experience
to advance women’s political
in campaigning for a 30 % quota in the 2016 elections. The fact that women
already achieved 24 % representation in parliament as a result of these elections,
participation, including a
enhancing women’s influence in the political arena, also presents an opportunity 50% women’s quota. This
and shows that real progress in women’s political participation is possible. affirmative action is crucial
Delegates also agreed that the revision of the constitution, as well as the to enable women’s political
development of electoral and political party laws provide key windows of participation and inclusive
opportunity to advance women’s political participation. Participants called for politics in Somalia.
each of these laws and frameworks to provide concrete measures to advance
Outcome of group discussion among delegates
women’s political participation. Participants specifically called for a 50% women’s
quota, highlighting that this affirmative action is crucial to enable women’s
political participation and inclusive politics. They also emphasized that a
powerful awareness-raising campaign is a must to achieve women’s full political
participation. Delegates moreover called for the creation of a committee that will
campaign for women’s issues in elections

Summary of Key Themes of the Discussion:

• Women have played important roles in sustaining Somali society, including as breadwinners during conflict and
through their work in civil society. Their political participation is key to inclusive politics and the development of
Somalia.

• However, women face serious, distinct obstacles to political participation, including gender-based discrimination
by male gatekeepers.

• The revision of the constitution and the development of electoral and political party laws provide key windows of
opportunity to advance women’s political participation.

• The constitution, electoral and political party laws should provide concrete measures to advance women’s political
participation, including a 50 % women’s quota specified in clear language.

• To ensure women’s political participation as Somalia moves towards a multi-party system, women’s representation
in political parties must be strengthened significantly.

• Women’s presence in political institutions is only a first step. Female politicians must then be empowered to
effectively influence decision-making and promote a women’s agenda. Women must stand united and hold all MPs
to account for passing gender equality legislation.

• Opportunities for women’s political participation include the fact that large numbers of female politicians are
prepared and interested to participate in public decision-making, despite the many challenges involved.

29
Gamal Mohamed Hassan, Minister of Planning, Investment and Economic Development, Federal Government of Somalia

Session 3.
Women’s Economic Participation as a Key Element in Achieving the NDP

Background and Introduction

Women’s economic empowerment makes a critical contribution to gender equality, the welfare of families and
communities, and to post-conflict recovery. Due to the history of conflict and disasters, half of all Somali households
are currently headed by women and the number of female-headed households continues to grow. This further increases
the significance of women’s economic participation for Somali society. Somalia’s current National Development Plan
(NDP, 2017 – 2019) recognizes that “Peace, stability and development can only be efficiently achieved by addressing
the obstacles women face to fully contribute to their country’s development.” In this context, the NDP aims to
promote gender equality and women’s empowerment both as key development objectives in their own right and as a
critical ingredient for sustainable development. This session provided an opportunity to discuss women’s economic
empowerment and its role in achieving the National Development Plan.

Panelists

Gamal Mohamed Deeq Yusuf Nasra Wehliye Qadiijo Cali

Hassan Director General, Ministry CFO, Nation Link Telecom, Business Woman from
Minister of Planning, of Women and Human one of the leading Minnesota, USA, founder of
Investment and Economic Rights Development, Federal telecommunications Global Language Connections,
Development, Federal Government of Somalia operators in Somalia recipient of Women in
Government of Somalia Business Award, Minnesota

30 somali women’s convention report

 “
In introductory remarks, the chair of this session, Sahra Kooshin (Development
Practitioners and PhD Candidate, UN Mandated University for Peace), highlighted
that women’s economic empowerment has ripple effects for their children, for
the family and society. When women are economically empowered, they gain Women are the backbone
increased respect in their communities. of the Somali economy…
Nasra Wehliye, CFO of Nation Link, a company that employs over a thousand During the civil war, women
people, noted that Somali women are known to have always played an active became breadwinners for
role in business. Women have led many businesses in the country and have most families. Empowering
been and still are the backbone of the Somali economy. Amongst other activities,
Somali women in businesses
women have provided on demand basic necessities to families through home
delivery. This shows the creativity and ingenuity with which Somali women
contributes directly to
solve everyday problems in their communities using sustainable means. As a Somalia’s economy, from
result of civil war, women took on an even more active role in business and the the level of the family to the
economy, becoming the breadwinners for most Somali families. This means national level.
that empowering Somali women in businesses contributes directly to Somalia’s
economy, from the level of the family to the national level.
Nasra Weheliye highlighted that women must have access to financing options. Women must have access
In Somalia, it is usually men who have these opportunities. She noted that
to financing options and
microfinance is one of the approaches that can be used to empower women in
business. Governments and banks can provide women with loans, which they government contracts.
can pay back. Somali women however do not have such opportunities, which she In Somalia it is usually
advised should be highlighted in the Charter. Government contracts are also not men who have these
given to women – only men are benefiting from these. Women should obtain 50% opportunities.
of such contracts.
Wehliye further noted that women should have a role in the ministries
concerned with the economy. While the Ministry of Commerce is responsible for
Women should have a role
promoting businesses and commercial activities, the Chamber of Commerce is
the gateway of Somali businesses to the world. It should be noted that none of the in the ministries concerned
20 departments or so of the Chamber of Commerce is headed by women. Men with the economy.
dominate all of these spaces and they tend to help other men, rather than women. Nasra Wehliye, Nation Link
The opportunities that come through this important gateway therefore go to men.
Opportunities should also be given to women and they should be included in the
Chamber of Commerce. The government should support women to be able to bid
for the big contracts and break the monopoly of the male-owned company.
According to Nasra Wehliye, NationLink is one of the few companies that gives
a significant share of its employment and business opportunities to women. She
suggested that this is because she, a woman, is a member of the board, and one of
the founders. Nasra Weheliye emphasized that women have the power to demand
all kinds of opportunities from all companies. They are the largest customers for
almost any company. Women can boycott companies’ products if these companies
do not practice gender equality or do not employ enough women.
Reflecting on her own experience and lessons in setting up a thriving company Investing in a woman’s
in the USA (Global Language Connections), Qadiijo Cali noted that, as a young business means investing
immigrant in the United States, she learned that there is an unmet demand in the
in an entire family, in a
area of language services: interpretation and translation. Although she had no
university degree, no experience in running a business, no finance or networks, community and the economy
she tried to identify a solution, seizing whatever opportunities could be found in as a whole. Affirmative
the USA for women in business. Today her company provides language services in actions for groups such
over 200 languages. as women are therefore
Legal provisions helped support her. Qadijo Cali’s business was certified as women important.
owned, which, in combination with the competence of her company, supported
Qadijo Cali, businesswoman, USA, founder of
her business in gaining contracts. She worked with a group called Civic Alliance Global Language Connections
who support women from minority groups who are doing business in the United

31
 “
States. The group helps women-owned businesses increase their business through
business services support and through networking events with potential clients.
Qadijo Cali also joined the board of directors of many of the organizations that
supported her. While she initially questioned what they would gain out of helping The government’s and the
her, she eventually learnt that their driving philosophy is that investing in women Ministry agenda is to ensure
has positive ripple effects for all individuals and groups connected to these that all ministries include
women. Studies show that women always represent more than an individual;
women’s empowerment in
they are a family, a community and a nation. Investing in a woman’s business
means investing in an entire family, in a community and the economy as a whole. their plans and agendas.
Affirmative actions for groups such as women are therefore important and the Deeq Yusuf, Ministry of Women and Human
government can help develop these policies. Rights Development

Based on her experience Qadijo Cali highlighted that legislation is key – this is
the main step to empower women and to create a level playing field. She also
emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and
private sector. Neither of them can solve all problems. The government can put
in place laws and infrastructure that support businesses as long as the business is
benefiting its local people.
Deeq Yusuf, Director General in the Ministry of Women and Human Rights
Development, noted that in order to understand an issue, we must ask those who
are affected. If you want to know about poverty, talk to poor people. Among the
panelists, he emphasized, he sees himself as an apprentice. Others have direct
experience of working as women in business and in economic development. The
Director General highlighted that women have played important roles in business
through history. He recalled the story of the Prophet Muhammed and his beloved
wife Khadija. Before their marriage, the prophet worked for Khadija, who was an
international businesswoman. Her business reached Arabia and Persia. In Islamic
history, a woman was the minister of finance during Omar’s period. Deeq Yusuf
emphasized that the Somali government is committed to empowering Somali
women. This is clear in the National Development Plan, which includes a specific
pillar (Pillar 9) on human rights and gender. The government’s and the Ministry’s
agenda is to ensure that all ministries include women’s empowerment in their
plans and agendas. The Director General concluded that we should not only
focus on microfinance in terms of women’s economic empowerment. As Nasra
Weheliye indicated, we should move beyond this. As Qadijo Cali advised, we
should learn from international practices.
Offering further reflections on the role of women’s empowerment in the National We are currently
Development Plan, Gamal Mohamed Hassan (Minister of Planning, Investment evaluating progress in NDP
and Economic Development) highlighted that the current National Development
implementation. It appears
Plan has been in place since 2017. One of its nine pillars focuses on women’s
issues and human rights. Specific targets in this area include for women to assume that one area where targets
30% of leadership positions and to significantly decrease gender-based violence. have not been achieved
Progress is currently being evaluated and it appears that an area where targets is women’s economic
have not been achieved is women’s economic empowerment. When it comes to empowerment.
economic power, we should be aware that women do not have appropriate access
to property or credit.
The Minister highlighted that the government is developing a new national
The majority of families are
development plan, which will be in place for the coming 5 years. In terms of
women’s participation in decision-making, he noted, we want to go beyond 30%
led by single mothers. Their
because we have highly educated women. The Minister highlighted that the economic empowerment
majority of families are led by single mothers. Their economic empowerment is is critical to the future of
critical to the future of Somalia. Bankruptcy rates are also lower among women Somalia.
led companies. The Minister noted that one of the government’s targets is to sign
Gamal Mohamed Hassan, Minister of Planning,
an agreement empowering Somali women to invest and partner with foreign
Investment and Economic Development
companies.

32 somali women’s convention report

 “
During group discussion, participants identified several steps that should be
taken to support women’s roles in business. Women should have access to loans
and investment. Agricultural cooperatives should be established for women.
Moreover, insurance should be put in place for the protection of women-owned Women must have access to
small businesses. Women should also be given a quota in the leadership of loans and investment.
businesses. Participants further called for the establishment of platforms that
can bring together women in businesses so that they can share ideas and lessons.
Participants moreover identified several interventions needed from the Ministry Women should be given a
of Women and Human Rights Development (MOWHRD) specifically. First of quota in the leadership of
all, there should be coordination among different ministries that work on issues
relevant to women’s economic empowerment and the MOWHRD should take
businesses.
the lead in ensuring that all government ministries and agencies respond to the
needs of women. In particular, the Ministry should support women in engaging
with the Ministry of Commerce so that it becomes more responsive to the needs There is a need for laws that
of women. The MOWHRD should also take the lead in creating laws that protect that protect women in small
women in small businesses and offer support to women in the capital and across
the federal member states. Laws that regulate businesses should be developed.
businesses and the MOWHRD
should take the lead in
Delegates also noted that MOWHRD should conduct a mapping of women in
creating them.
businesses (what they do, the challenges they meet etc.) and register women in
business so that it can identify those that need support. Women must then be Conclusion of group discussion among delegates
provided with appropriate skills training. Participants called for the Ministry
to develop a strategy for the development of women’s businesses and set up a
dedicated department for women’s businesses. It should also seek to provide
employment for young women and women with disabilities. Buildings from
which women can run their businesses are also needed.

Summary of Key Themes of the Discussion:

• Women have provided the backbone of Somalia’s economy. Their roles increased further during conflict, with women
becoming breadwinners for most Somali families.

• Women’s economic empowerment is critical to the future of Somalia, contributing directly to the countries’ economy
from the level of the family to the national level.

• To promote women’s economic empowerment, women must have access to loans, investment and government
contracts.

• There is a need for laws that promote and protect women’s role in business and the economy.

• Women should be given a quota in the leadership of businesses.

• Women should have a greater role in the ministries and public agencies concerned with the economy

33
The opening panel for Session 4 discusses Somali women’s experiences of climate change and resilience.

Session 4.
Women, Climate Change and Resilience

Background and Introduction

Somalia has experienced major climate-induced shocks on a 2 to 5-year cycle, including severe droughts, flooding
and cyclones. These shocks have caused massive displacement and crisis for basic supplies. While the majority
of the Somalia population is vulnerable to climate change, women and youth have been identified as the most
vulnerable groups. At the same time, women’s responsibilities in households, communities, and as stewards of natural
resources position them well to serve as agents for change and to help develop more effective responses to changing
environmental realities. However, women tend to be excluded from decision-making on natural resources and natural
disasters, which is often conducted through meetings of clan elders. They are also less likely to receive tailored support
to cope with the distinct effects of climate-induced shocks on their lives. This session provided an opportunity to
discuss the challenges and opportunities posed by women’s experiences of climate change and resilience.

Panelists

Prof. Abdullahi Elmi Asad Amaal Said Jamac Zahra Abukar Ismail Asli Ducaale
Senior Expert in Environment, Co-founder, Women in Graduate student, Climate Somali Water Partnership
Water and Climate Renewable Energy Somalia Change and Environmental and funding Chair of WEAVE,
(WIRES), an organization Sustainability, Amoud Women Education and
supporting women’s ability to University Voicing Entrepreneurship,
engage in sustainable natural a Somali NGO set up in 2008
resource management in Mogadishu

34 somali women’s convention report

 “
The panelists agreed that the impacts of climate change are no longer merely a
topic of discussion among academics but a reality with serious implications for
Somali people.
Water scarcity means that
Prof. Abdullahi Elmi Asad emphasized that in Somalia climate change is a
many young girls will have
pressing issue that needs urgent interventions from all stakeholders.
to spend most of their time
He noted that Somali society is closely dependent on climate in all aspects of
fetching water from longer
life. Water and pasture, two key ingredients for the life of Somali society, are the
product of climatic conditions, specifically the availability of rain. Scarcity of these distance wells instead
resources puts pressure on communal relations, at times leading to conflict. Due of going to school. This
to such dynamics, climate change has been recognized as an important factor jeopardizes girls’ education, a
in global security. Prof. Asad emphasized that climate change has distinct and basic human right.
serious effects on women and girls. Water scarcity, for example, means that many
young girls will have to spend most of their time fetching water from wells placed Prof. Abdullahi Elmi Asad

at longer distance instead of going to school. This jeopardizes girls’ education, a

basic human right. A possible solution to this problem that can be explored, he
suggested, are ‘blue schools’. These are schools for girls where water is readily
available.
Asli Ducaale of the Somali Water Partnership and founding Chair of the NGO International donor
WEAVE (Women Education and Voicing Entrepreneurship) , highlighted that organisations have begun
water is a scarce life-and-death commodity for most rural communities in
to allocate significant
Somalia, whose lives have been shaped by recurring droughts for the past decades.
However, many Somali people may not understand the difference a cup of water resources to combat climate
can make in the lives of these rural communities. In this light, Ducaale called for change. Groups involved in
awareness-raising about the value of water and its scarcity in rural communities. environmental issues should
Asli Ducaale highlighted that in the past trees were important to Somali people mobilize to ensure these funds
and Somali culture. Communities used to name every tree in their areas. Trees are used to support Somalia
functioned as a communal meeting place to which everyone was connected. in ending water scarcity and
However, deforestation has since posed a serious challenge. Trees have been cut
reversing the serious effects
extensively to turn them into charcoal either for export or for local consumption.
As Asli Ducaale explained, the result, amongst others, is the disappearance of of climate change.
species, which were unique to Somalia and well suited to local climate conditions. Asli Ducaale
Species imported from other countries may not grow in Somalia. Asli Ducaale
finally highlighted that, after realizing its global impact, international donor
organizations have allocated significant resources to reverse the effects of climate
change. Given the serious effects climate change is having and will have on
Somalia, groups involved in environmental issues should mobilize to ensure these
funds are used to support Somalia in ending water scarcity and reversing the
effects of climate change.
Zahra Abukar, a post-graduate student in environmental studies, concluded the Women’s empowerment
session by highlighting that women’s empowerment through education is the through education is the key
key solution. This will enable women to participate in decision-making about
solution. This will enable
responses to climate change and develop more effective coping strategies.
women to participate in
In group discussion, participants affirmed that women are adversely and seriously
decision-making about
affected by climate change, environmental conditions and pollution in many
areas, including deforestation, droughts and the degradation of agricultural land,
responses to climate change
flooding, air pollution, littering and the pouring of poisonous waste into the sea. an develop more effective
They highlighted a number of effects on women and girls, including hunger, the coping strategies.
reduction of drinking water and the need to walk longer distances to fetch water,
Ms. Zahra Abukar
negative health consequences, including due to lack of proper sanitation, financial
loss as farms along the river disappear due to flooding or degradation of land, as
well as internal displacement.

35
Delegates highlighted that women can make important contributions in
addressing climate change and its effects in Somalia, including by raising
awareness about environmental degradation and advocate for relevant
legislation, and alerting the authorities to illegal acts that damage the
environment. Women also have a role to play in supporting job creation and
resettlement of IDP. Participants further highlighted measures women can take
in their everyday lives, including protecting and planting trees together, making
tanks and pools to catch and save rain, ending the use of plastic utensils and
plastic bags as well as trading in goods that harm the environment.

Delegates deliberate on key concerns to be included in the Somali Women’s Charter.

Summary of Key Themes of the Discussion:

• Changing climate and environmental conditions have serious impacts on Somali society and require urgent attention
from all stakeholders.

• These changes have distinct and important effects on women and girls, including by undermining their health and
access to education.

• At the same time, women can be a key part of the solution and make important contributions in addressing climate
change and its effects in Somalia.

• Women should be empowered to participate in decision-making regarding responses to climate change and the
development of more effective coping strategies.

36 somali women’s convention report

Sahra Mohamed Ahmed discusses key challenges in addressing sexual violence as part of the opening panel for Session 5.

Session 5.
Justice for Women and Girls

Background and Introduction

Following decades of civil war, Somalia is currently rebuilding its justice system. Extremely limited human and financial
resources as well as physical infrastructure pose great challenges in this context. While these barriers affect all
Somalis, women and girls face additional, distinct challenges in accessing justice. There is also a lack of women’s
representation in the development and application of the justice system, with only one female judge, for example. This
further reduces the chances that women’s distinct experiences and needs will be addressed in the justice system.
Conflict and disasters have also increased levels of sexual and gender-based violence, adding further urgency to the
creation of a justice system capable of responding to these concerns. This session provided an opportunity to discuss
these and other challenges faced in securing justice for women and girls in Somalia.

Panelists

Mr. Axmed Cali Dahir Lawyer Tahliil Haji Ahmed Sahra Mohamed Ahmed
Attorney General, Somalia Lawyer, former judge, Managing Founder and a legal adviser, Somali
Director Horn Legal Consulting Women Development Centre
Services

37
 “
During panel discussion, the Attorney General highlighted that the violations
women are facing have increased. In the past year over 210 cases have been
prosecuted. There are approximately another 100 cases, which were not
submitted to the court. After the government investigated cases, reporting While rape has taken place
increased. The crimes committed against women are varied. The largest historically, due to the social
proportion of cases are against people younger than 15. Young men are also collapse in Somalia, we now
increasingly becoming victims of rape. Children as young as one or two years
see extreme cases across
are becoming victims.
the country.
The Attorney General noted that, while rape has taken place historically, due to
Mr. Axmed Cali Dahir, Attorney General, Somalia
the social collapse in Somalia, we now see extreme cases across the country. The
Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development has prepared Somalia’s
first dedicated legislation on sexual and gender-based violence, the Sexual
Offences Bill (SOB). The cabinet approved the SOB unanimously and the bill is
now in parliament. The next challenge will be ensuring strong implementation.
The lawyer Tahliil highlighted that rape is an instrument of oppression and Rape is an instrument
displacement. It is one of the factors forcing people to flee their homes. Women of oppression and
are not the only victims; men are also becoming victims. Tahliil emphasized that
displacement. It is one
the high prevalence of rape is new; it is not part of Somali culture. He noted that
the biggest problem is the stigmatization of the survivor, whether boy or girl. of the factors that forces
In part to avoid such stigma, and fearing damage to the honor of the individual people to flee their homes.
survivor and his/her clan, family members and relatives of the survivor often Lawyer Tahliil Haji Ahmed, lawyer and former
hinder the work of prosecutors to secure justice for the survivor and instead judge
resort to traditional means of reconciliation, which are less public.
Sahra Mohamed Ahmed, founder and legal advisor at the civil society
organization Somali Women Development Centre, expressed her appreciation
for the work of the Attorney General, noting that upon taking office he
nominated six female officers to his office to take part in the judiciary system of
the country. She highlighted that this was unprecedented. He then established
a special department addressing sexual violence, which is led by women and
provides a direct point of contact for those affected. She emphasized the need to
further increase women’s representation in the rule of law and justice systems,
and the opportunity provided by the Somali Women’s Convention to call for
progress in this area.
Sahra Mohamed Ahmed highlighted that a key challenge they face in their
voluntary work handling rape cases is that traditional elders often directly
intervene. In order to counteract these and other challenges in addressing sexual
violence, she called for a campaign to ensure the endorsement of the pending
Sexual Offences Bill by parliament. Sahra Mohamed Ahmed noted that the lack
of a forensic laboratory poses another challenge and urged for the establishment
of such facilities by the Ministry of Health.
She emphasized that one reason for the recent increase in rape cases is that male One of the main challenges
teenagers use drugs like khat, which induce hallucinations. Her organization that survivors of sexual
Somali Women Development Centre gathered the 17 districts of Benadir
violence face while seeking
chairpersons to talk about the ways drug use among the youth can be reduced.
She emphasized that victims of sexual violence are not only those living in IDPS justice is that written laws
camps, but also those living at home. and Sharia often fail to be
To counteract these trends, Sahra Mohamed Ahmed further urged religious
enforced and women are
leaders to start a campaign in the mosques to talk about the punishment of forced to accept solutions
rape based on the Islamic religion. She emphasized that civil society also has an outside the legal system
important role to play in addressing sexual violence. Some organizations already through informal agreement
operate safe houses to provide accommodation and refuge to victims. The role
between clans.
of civil society is also to mobilize the community and conduct awareness raising
campaigns on women’s rights. Outcome of group discussion between delegates

38 somali women’s convention report

 “
During group discussion participants identified a number of challenges that
survivors of sexual violence face while seeking justice. The first challenge
is culture which sees talking about sexual offences as taboo. Written laws
and Islamic sharia often fail to be implemented and women forced to accept The Sexual Offences Bill
solution outside the legal system through informal agreement between clans, (SOB) must be passed
such as marriage to the perpetrator or financial compensation. Lawyers and by parliament and the
legal experts have faced intimidation when pursuing cases and the police and
Women’s Conference
other law enforcement agencies may be bribed.
should issue a statement
Participants called for the passing of the Sexual Offences Bill (SOB) by supporting the SOB.
parliament. They noted that the three-day conference should issue a statement
supporting the SOB. Women parliamentarians should demand the reading
of the bill in parliament and the Minister of Women and Human Rights To ensure access to justice
Development should be supported to present it at parliament.
for women and survivors
Participants also called for steps to ensure laws on sexual offences can be of SGBV, women must be
effectively implemented. In particular, they highlighted the need for female represented in the justice
prosecutors and attorneys to handle sexual offence cases. They also called
for the Somali lawyer’s association, dismantled in 1986, to be re-established.
sector.
To do so, lawyers representing all regions of the country, including female
representatives, should attend a general assembly. Lawyers should take on
Platforms should be
sexual offences cases pro bono.
established where women
Participants highlighted the need to invest in awareness-raising about the SOB
and religious scholars can
at regional, district and village levels. People should understand that laws are
above all other arrangements. Participants also highlighted the need for an
come together and discuss
effective criminal investigation department and to build the capacity of this gender-related laws.
department and of the police in investigating crimes related to sexual offenses. Outcome of group discussion between
Participants further called for an emergency number for female survivors and delegates
the protection of the confidentiality of cases by lawyers and law enforcement
agencies. Sexual offenses involving children and young women should not be
submitted to military tribunal.
Participants also argued that regions should have their own children’s courts.
Such courts should also be able to handle offenses involving young women.
Finally, participants called for the establishment of platforms for women and
religious scholars where gender-related laws are discussed.

Summary of Key Themes of the Discussion:

• The social collapse in Somalia has increased the severity of sexual and gender-based violence and other violations
experienced by women and girls. Rape is an instrument of oppression and displacement, forcing people to flee their
homes.

• Men and boys are also affected by sexual and gender-based violence.

• Key obstacles to women’s access to justice include, stigma, traditional practices interfering with formal justice
processes, the low level of women’s representation in the justice sector and the related lack of capacity in the justice
sector to respond to women’s specific concerns.

• Women’s representation in justice sector must increase, including the availability of female prosecutors and
attorneys to handle sexual offence cases.

• The Sexual Offences Bill (SOB) must be passed as a matter of urgency.

• All people must be aware that the law supersedes all other arrangements, including customary and traditional
practices that discriminate against women.

39
The opening panel of Session 6 exchanges views and experiences of women’s roles in innovation.

Session 6.
Innovation and Women Pioneers

Background and Introduction

The challenges involved in advancing gender equality, sustainable peace and development after conflict call for
innovative approaches, including the use of new technologies. Somali women can and do play an important role in
enhancing innovation. Some of their new ideas directly target women’s empowerment. Women’s leadership of such
initiatives also advances gender equality indirectly by increasing societal appreciation of women’s roles in innovation
and new technologies, providing young Somali women and girls with role models, and encouraging other women to
take the initiative to lead in their community’s development. This session provided an opportunity to discuss the roles
of Somali women in innovation and how these can be promoted further going forward.

Panelists

Sahra Alasow Iman Ahmed Sumaya Nur Abdi Dr. Sadiyo Siad
Founder of several small- Activist and head of youth Founder, Wadani Foods Founder, Hano Group and
scale businesses focusing organization Barbaarta industry Chancellor, Hano Academy
on creative arts to support Barakacayaasha, project
unemployed youth manager at Samawat Energy,
a female-founded renewable
energy company

40 somali women’s convention report

 “
During panel discussion, Sahra Alasow explained that her innovation is
concerned with art and culture. She has founded multiple small-scale businesses
focusing on creative arts to support unemployed youth to make a living. One of
these is the Suuban Arts painting and framing business for creative young people Women can contribute to the
based in Mogadishu. Sahra Alasow highlighted that, as a result of the civil wars development of our society
and killings they grew up with, the color that young people used in their art was with their innovative ideas.
initially mainly black. After her business worked with them, they started to use
Sahra Alasow
livelier colors. Now, the beautiful paintings used to decorate the hotel at which the
convention is held are the ones these young people created.
Sumaya Nour Ali, founder of Wadani Foods Industry, highlighted that Somali Somali women play an active
women have always played an active, leading role in business. During the civil role in business. They should
war, their resilience was what sustained what economy Somalia had. Women also
have confidence in their
prepared the current generation of leaders, despite the difficult circumstances.
It is clear that Somali women can and do play an important role in economic
capacities.
development. Iman Ahmed, Samawat Energy

Iman Ahmed, activist and project manager at Samawat Energy, agreed that
Somali women play an active role in business. Through their innovative business
ideas, women can also contribute to the development of Somali society. They
should have confidence in their capacities. Iman Ahmed encouraged women
to build their own businesses based on their innovative ideas, rather than only
waiting for employment. Her company Samawat Energy works in the sector of
solar energy. This is a sector dominated by men-owned businesses and many
people have negative attitudes towards women working in this sector. However,
Samawat Energy was founded and owned by a young Somali woman. Now, 90%
of employees are women.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by Somali women in business, panelists agreed
that securing funding is the first challenge. Getting investment capital at the
beginning of one’s business is very difficult. Sumaya Nour Ali recounted that
she started her meat (oodkac/ muqmad) business with just $50. However, today,
having established herself, many banks are willing to provide loans to her. She
would encourage young women interested in business to start with whatever
resources they can find and see where it goes. However, panelists agreed that
the government and private banks should significantly increase their support to
women in accessing funding.
During group discussion, participants concurred that a lack of starting capital or A lack of starting capital
initial investment poses a critical challenge for women in business. Banks require poses a critical challenge
women to come with a guarantor; they don’t trust women. The government
for women in business.
also does not support women businesses with investment capital. This is
compounded by a lack of laws encouraging women’s businesses. Women’s ideas The government and banks
and innovations are often overlooked, not presented or stolen by others. Societal should support women’s
support for women-owned businesses also needs to increase. The lack of tax businesses with investment
exemption for locally produced crops was highlighted as a further challenge. capital.
Participants agreed that women’s innovations in business can play a significant
role in national development as women constitute 50% of the population.
Women have creative ideas but they lack economic support and encouragement.
Large corporations should
Women’s innovations could play an important role in promoting the economy of
the country, creating jobs and thereby advancing stability; in raising awareness help protect and promote
of women’s active roles in society; and contributing to the organization and women’s innovations
advancement of the country. and women should be
Participants called for the government and banks to support women’s businesses represented in their top
with investment capital. They also urged large corporations to help protect, management.
encourage, develop and invest in women’s innovations. Moreover, they called
Outcome of group discussion among delegates
for women’s representation in the top management and leadership of such

41
companies. Participants noted that women should additionally be involved in
social projects that such companies engage in, including the construction of
schools, hospitals and other public projects. Companies should refrain from
establishing monopolies in their respective sectors. Participants also called for
laws that protect the innovations of women who do not have capital.

Saynab Mohamed Xaji (Saynab Labadhagax), famous Somali singer

Summary of Key Themes of the Discussion:

• Somali women can and do play an important role in economic development and innovation, and their innovative
ideas can make an important contribution to the development of Somalia.

• The lack of starting capital is the main challenge in empowering women in business and innovation. Government and
banks should increase women’s access to funding.

• There is a lack of laws supporting women in business and protecting innovations by women.

• Large corporations should help protect and promote women’s innovations and women should be represented in their
top management.

42 somali women’s convention report

Sheikh Hassan Ahmed Siyaar discusses the increase of sexual violence during the opening panel for Session 7.

Session 7.
Advocacy Around the Passing and Implementation of SOB and Anti-FGM Bills –
Best Practices

Background and Introduction

Conflict, insecurity and disaster have increased levels of sexual and gender-based violence in Somalia. This violence
undermines the health of survivors, their ability to contribute to Somalia’s development, the cohesion of communities
and trust in the state. At the same time, a reported 98 % of Somali women are affected by Female Genital Mutilation
(FGM), undermining women and girls’ health and access to education. To help address these challenges, under
the leadership of the Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development, the Federal Government of Somalia has
developed the country’s first dedicated legislation on gender-based violence: The Sexual Offences Bill. Unanimously
passed by cabinet in May 2018, the bill is currently awaiting discussion in parliament. The government is also close
to finalizing a draft bill on FGM. This session provided an opportunity to discuss how these and other responses to
gender-based violence in Somalia can be advanced going forward.

Panelists

Sahra Omar Maalin Zahra Siyad Naleye Sheikh Cumar Xerow Sheikh Hassan Ahmed
Member of Parliament Anti-FGM activist, senior Religious scholar Siyaar
and Gender and Human FGM project manager of Religious scholar
Rights Activist the Federation of Somali
Associations in the
Netherlands (FSAN)

43
 “
In panel discussion, Sh. Hassan Ahmed Siyaar noted that what happened this
month to the girl Aisha shocked everybody. These crimes are new in Somalia.
He emphasized that we need to first send our condolence to the victims of sexual
and gender-based violence and we urge the government to support the victims Women can contribute to the
financially. Sh. Hassan noted that the Islamic religion has a clear position on this development of our society
issue: people who commit such acts are fighting Allah and the prophet, peace upon with their innovative ideas.
him. They are committing what Allah does not permit. He noted that those who
support perpetrators of such violence do not deserve to be in public office. Sahra Alasow

Reflecting on the position of Islam with regard to FGM, Sh. Cumar Xerow
highlighted that Islam is a religion of peace and kindness. It is a religion of honor
that protects the honor and dignity of all human beings. FGM is an act that harms The role of religious scholars
human beings and does not help them in any way. He emphasized that Allah is in fighting FGM and sexual
the creator of women, and He created them in the most perfect way. We should violence is to educate people.
not assume we can improve on his work. Islam does not allow women’s body to be We will not hesitate to do so.
cut. Sh. Omar and Sh. Hassan noted that the role of religious scholars in fighting
FGM and sexual violence is to educate people, affirming that they will not hesitate Sh. Omar and Sh. Siyad
to do so.
Zahra Siyaa Naleye, an anti-FGM activist, reminded participants that before These issues are not
the civil war, Somali women’s associations, the Ministry of Education, and other something that concerns
agencies conducted a campaign against FGM. In 1988 a conference on FGM took
only women. All members of
place. Soon after, the civil war broke out. She noted that it is reality that 98% of
Somali women are circumcised. Somalia is one of the 10 countries in the world society should take part in
where FGM is most prevalent. She emphasized that civil society organizations addressing them.
have an important role to play in raising awareness of sexual violence and Zahra Naleye, anti-FGM activist
lobbying for the draft legislation on sexual offences (the Sexual Offences Bill) to
be passed. Zahra Siyad Naleye concluded that these issues are not something that
concerns only women. All members of the society should take part in addressing
them.
Discussing the role of parliament in passing laws intended to eradicate FGM The reading of the Sexual
and other forms of gender-based violence, Member of Parliament and Gender Offenses Bill in parliament
Activist Sahra Omar Maalin highlighted that Somalia’s first dedicated legislation
is the first priority in
on gender-based violence, the Sexual Offences Bill, was brought to parliament
in June 2018. She noted that the first reading of the bill must be conducted as addressing sexual violence.
a matter of urgency. The reading of the bill is the first priority in addressing Sahra Omar Maalin, Member of Parliament and
sexual violence. She emphasized that Allah surely has honored women. There is Gender Activist
a chapter of the Qur’an named after women, Nisa, but there is none named after
men.
During group discussion, participants called for civil society to advocate for the
endorsement of the Sexual Offences Bill (SOB). They also urged religious leaders
to participate in advocacy and give speeches on the SOB in the mosques. The
Ministry of Information and Culture should also contribute to awareness-raising
for the enactment of the SOB. A chapter about the harm done to girls due to
FGM should be added to Somalia’s educational curriculum. Boys and men must
be engaged and taught that rape is a great crime in terms of our religion and
legislations.
Participants agreed that the lack of dedicated legislation poses a key barrier for
women and girls in accessing justice. These challenges are compounded by stigma,
cultural practices and the common tendency for the families of perpetrators and
victims to address sexual violence through traditional negotiations between them.

44 somali women’s convention report

 “
Participants called for the law to supersede all traditional and cultural practices
that harm women’s rights. The Somali culture should stop supporting the offender
and the perpetrator must face justice, including through strong prosecution. There
is an urgent need to raise awareness among the community about the physical Civil society, religious
and psychological burdens experienced by women due to sexual violence and leaders, government, women
broader gender-based violence. and men must join forces to
Delegates noted that, to ensure survivors can report offences, the privacy and lobby for the passing of the
safety of victims must be protected. There is a need for dedicated offices where Sexual Offences Bill. The lack
cases can be reported and an emergency number for people to call during crisis.
of dedicated legislation poses
a key barrier in accessing
justice.

The law must supersede

all traditional and cultural
practices that harm women’s
rights.
Outcome of group discussion

Participants discuss shared demands for women’s rights in breakout groups.

Summary of Key Themes of the Discussion:

• Somali’s history of civil war has increased sexual and gender-based violence.

• FGM and sexual and gender-based violence are not in line with Islam.

• The lack of dedicated legislation poses a key barrier for survivors in accessing justice.

• Reading of the Sexual Offences Bill (SOB) in parliament is the first priority in addressing sexual and gender-based
violence in Somalia.

• Civil society, religious leaders, government, women and men must join forces to lobby for the passing of the SOB.

• The law must supersede all traditional and cultural practices that harm women’s rights.

45
CLOSING OF THE CONVENTION

Closing remarks by Halima Ismail,

Chairperson of the National Elections Commission

This is the first time that a convention of this nature,

bringing together such a large number of women,
has been held in Somalia since the collapse of the
Revolutionary Government. I would like to congratulate
the Minister of Women and Human Rights Development,
Honorable Deqa Yasin, for this immense achievement.
We must acknowledge the sacrifices of those women
who have struggled and worked hard throughout their
lives just to see a day like this, when Somali women
from across all corners of the country come together to
promote a single cause: the rights and interests of Somali
women.
Let us not forget the advice of the First Lady in her
opening speech: Women must work together and support
Halima Ismail, Chairperson of the National Elections Commission
one another as women. This convention was highly
significant in that it not only gave all participants the
opportunity to reflect on the past struggles of Somali

“
women and the lessons that can be learned from their
sacrifices, but also an opportunity to unite under the
leadership of Minister Deqa Yasin and other champions
of women’s rights.
The Women’s Charter sets out a plan of action that The Women’s Charter sets out a
Somali women and other stakeholders agree on for the
promotion of women’s rights going forward. plan of action that Somali women
In this context, the popular elections scheduled for 2020- and other stakeholders agree on
21 and the formation of political parties, a process that
transfers power from few key male players to ordinary
for the promotion of women’s
Somali citizens as voters, provide Somali women with rights going forward. In this
an immense opportunity. The role of political parties is
key in this context and every party must give women context, the popular elections
at least 30 % of its top positions. As women, let us come
together and pressure our politicians and elders to ensure
scheduled for 2020-21 provide
the forthcoming elections are realized effectively and Somali women with an immense
promote women’s full participation. This is how we as
women can secure our rights. opportunity.

46 somali women’s convention report

Closing speech and presentation of the
Somali Women’s Charter by Deqa Yasin,
Minister of Women and Human Rights Development

“
I would like to express my sincere and heartfelt gratitude
to both the Prime Minister and the First Lady for attending
this convention. This shows their commitment, and that
of the government, to women’s cause. I would like to
particularly thank the Prime Minister, whose constant
Despite their diversity, the
support and encouragement during all of the Ministry’s delegates of the Convention
initiatives have been a critical engine driving my work
for the Somali people during my time in this office. The were united by one agenda: the
commitment of both the President and Prime Minister
to the promotion of women’s rights is reflected in the
promotion of women’s rights.
composition and programmes of the current government.
The creation of this event, a convention that has brought
together over 300 women and gender champions from
all regions and member states of the country, as well as
the diaspora, marked an important milestone for Somali
women. Despite their diversity, the delegates were united
by one agenda: the promotion of women’s rights.
One of the issues that we discussed during this convention
was the constitutional review process, currently underway,
which the delegates saw as an important opportunity
for the promotion of women’s rights. In addition, the
delegates also saw the electoral and political party laws,
which are currently being drafted, as an important
window of opportunity for Somali women. Regarding the
constitution, the delegates called for the inclusion of clear,
unambiguous statements defining the rights of women in
the constitution.
Other key themes that were discussed included women’s Deqa Yasin Hagi Yusuf, Minister of Women and Human Rights Development,
standing sixth from left, with conference participants during the closing of
economic empowerment; the effects of climate change;
the convention.
women and innovation; women and justice and sexual and
gender-based violence. The outcome of these discussions
is the Somali Women’s Charter. It is the key binding
document that highlights the issues that women agreed
during the convention. [The Minister then presented the
key demands of the Somali Women’s Charter, see pg. 5-8].

47
Closing remarks by Simon Bolongo, Speech by Hassan Ali Khaire, Prime Minister,
Deputy of AMISOM Federal Government of Somalia

I would like to use these brief closing remarks to I am very glad that I am here with you all today to witness
congratulate the Minister for Women and Human Rights the outcome of the Somali Women’s Convention. This
Development, Honorable Deqa Yasin, for convening this Convention has been long coming and I have been eagerly
convention aimed to produce a Charter which defines the looking forward to it, from the moment Minister Deqa
role of women in modern Somalia. Women have played Yasin came to me with the idea to hold this Convention.
integral roles in all societies around the world. Today I immediately supported the idea and urged the Minister to
researchers, academics and policy-makers recognize that organize this Convention in the first three months of this
progress is only possible with women and that governance year.
without the full participation of women is therefore
It is extremely positive to witness the hard work that you
unimaginable.
all have delivered in the past three days to reach this vital
It is based on this belief that the African Union is and tangible outcome. The Minister has been continuously
committed to quotas for women’s participation in decision- updating me on the progress of the Convention and the
making. In closing, I would like to assure the delegates of work that was being conducted by the participants. I would
this convention that AMISOM and the African Union are like to fully acknowledge and commend the hard work of
wholeheartedly ready to support the Women’s Charter Minister Deqa and the staff of the Ministry in the great
and other initiatives led by the Minister for Women and organization of this Convention.
Human Rights Development, Honorable Deqa Yasin.
Our Government has tremendous gratitude and respect for
Somali women. We know the immense sacrifices you made
to hold our nation together in the most difficult of times.
You were the only caretakers of the Somali families and the
only hope that our country had. You were the doctors that
attended to our sick and injured. You have always pushed
and continue to push for the peace process and advocated
for hostilities to cease permanently. Many women here
today have established civil society organizations to
support the vulnerable and those that have become
internally displaced. You have always been and continue to
be the backbone of this nation.

Hassan Ali Khaire, Prime Minister, Federal Government of Somalia

48 somali women’s convention report

Every single woman here today is a leader in her own I would like to ask the Minister of Women and Human
right, from the home to all levels of society. Personally, I Rights and her ministry staff to come up with a
know my mother’s efforts to make me the man I am today. comprehensive implementation action plan for the Charter
She was my first teacher, she taught me how to talk and to enable us to move forward on making the demands in
how to walk. There is no one that can take her position. the Charter a reality. This will also allow us to budget for
this work.
It is not necessary to keep repeating how important
women are, we know and believe this intrinsically. As a
government, we are committed to ensuring that women

“
receive their fair share to be able to fully participate at all
levels of our society. We can never deny the role of women
in Somalia. If we conduct a census today, I am sure that
women will be more than 55% of the Somali population. So
we have to ensure that they receive their rights and fair The Somali Women’s Charter
share.
provides us with a clear mandate
I have listened to the Minister, I have read the Charter
and it is clear to me that this Charter is clearly defined and going forward. We will work
provides us with a clear mandate going forward. We will
work together with the Ministry of Women and Human
together with the Ministry of
Rights Development, which is one of the more active Women and Human Rights
ministries in my administration, to fully implement this
Charter. Also, I will share this Charter with the President Development to fully implement
and my Cabinet, as every office has a part to take in its
implementation.
this Charter.
As you are all aware, the work on gender equality and
human rights is a shared responsibility and therefore should
be worked on by all ministries as these issues are truly
cross-cutting. This is the reason why it is every ministry’s
job to work on the implementation of the Charter.
Parts of the Charter will have to be passed by parliament
and I believe that many MPs are championing this cause,
some of them are here today. They will ensure that this
Charter is passed by parliament. Our work will be to fully
implement the Charter.
Other parts of the Charter have to be sent to the
institutions working on the constitutional review. In this
context, I would like to encourage all women to take part in
the constitutional review process. No one will speak up on
your issues if you don’t do it yourself, speak up and let your
voices be heard. We will support you, but it is important
for you all to appoint dedicated individuals to follow this
process closely.

49
THE somali WOMEN’S CONVENTION ON SOCIAL MEDIA

The Somali Women’s Convention generated very high levels of interest and engagement on social media. Tweets about the
conference were published through the hashtags #SomaliWomenConvention and #ShirweynahaHaweenka.

Social Media Audience Reach

Tota l V i e w s facebook youtube twitter

Live tweeting:
Posts or live stream
3-6 March: Live stream:
Live stream
(Somali National TV page): 126,400
207,149 74,335 6,414 Views 1-15 March:

169,600

Twitter Analytics Results

#SomaliWomenConvention tweets earned 169.6K impressions over this 15 day period

tweets
per day

40.0K
#SomaliWomenConvention
tweets earned

20.0K
11,100
impressions per day
during this
15 day period
20

Mar 1 Mar 3 Mar 5 Mar 7 Mar 9 Mar 10 Mar 13 Mar 15

tuesday march 5, 2019

43,704
Organic
Impressions:

Tweets: 32
50 somali women’s convention report
ANNEX 1: AGENDA OF THE SOMALI WOMEN’S CONVENTION

SOMALI WOMEN’S CONVENTION

4 – 6 MARCH 2019
ROYAL PALACE HOTEL, MOGADISHU Federal Government of Somalia
Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development

DAY 1 – MONDAY 4 March 2019

8.00 – 9.00am Registration ALL

Sainab Abdi Moalim

First Lady of Somalia

Deqa Yasin
Minister of Gender and Human Rights
Development

Khadija Mohamed Diriye

Minister of Youth and Sports

Mahad Abdalla Awad

Deputy Speaker of the House of the People

Gamal Hassan
Minister of Planning, Investment & Economic
Development

Eng. Abdirahman Yarisow

Mayor of Mogadishu

Hawa Yusuf Ahmed

Opening Remarks and Introduction Gender and Human Rights Committee
09:00 – 10:30 Chairperson – House of the People
to the Conference
Zamzam Ibrahim Ali
Gender and Human Rights Committee
Chairperson – Upper House

Naima Mohamed Mohamud

Minister of Health Galmudug
Caasha Khaliif Mohamed
HirShabelle
Faiza Sharif Nur
Minister of Women South-West Federal
Member States

Peter de Clercq
UNSOM – Officer in Charge and DSRSG

Ambassador Francisco Madeira

Special Representative of the Chairperson of the
African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia

Dignitaries & Friends of Somalia

10:30 – 11:00 COFFEE BREAK

51
11:00 - 1200 Interactions with Media + Entertainment (Somali Band)

12:00 – 13:30 PRAYER AND LUNCH

13.30 – 14.30 Session 1 – The Draft Constitution reviewed Panelists:

through a Gender lens Deputy Minister Hussein Abdi Elmi,
Panel Discussions Hibo Yassin
The way forward for GEWE within the Constitution Halima Jama
– lessons learned from 2016.

14.30 – 16.00 Break Out Groups Facilitator:

Abdisatar Mohamed Gelle
Group 1: Overarching principles to be
mainstreamed across the Constitution
Facilitator:
Group 2: The Bill of Rights Mohamed Elmi

15.00 – 15.30 PRAYERS AND COFFEE

Free access during the breakup group discussions

15.30 – 16.00 Plenary: Facilitator:

Presentation from the groups + final feedback Abdisatar Mohamed Gelle
from key speakers and draft key points for
women charter

16.00 – 16.30 Refreshment Key speakers for press Q&A

Press Q & A

DAY 2 – TUESDAY 5 MARCH 2019

08.00 – 09.00 Arrival and Spoken Word / Somali Poetry All

09:00 – 10.15 Life Experience Hayat Omar

Session 2 – Women’s Political Participation Panelists
Panel Discussions Halima Ismail, Asha Gelle and Adam Matan
Facilitator
Nasrin Ibrahim

10.15 – 11.30 Break out groups Facilitator

Nimco Hassan
Group1: Political participation and its law
Group 2: Elections
Facilitator
Nasrin Ibrahim

11.30 – 12.00 Session 2 – Plenary Session Plenary Session

Identify point(s) for women charter
Facilitator
Nimco Hassan and Nasrin Ibrahim

12:00 – 13:00 PRAYER AND LUNCH

13.00 – 14.00 Session 3 – Women Economic Participation Panelists

as a key element in achieving the NDP. Gamal Hassan, Qadijo Cali
Nasra Wehliye
Panel Discussions
Deeq Yusuf

52 somali women’s convention report

14.00 – 15.00 Group work Facilitator
Women economic participation as a key Sahra Ahmed Koshin
element in achieving the NDP

15.00 – 15.30 Plenary session covering both sessions Facilitator

Sahra Ahmed Koshin

13.00 – 14.00 Session 4 – Women, Climate Change and Panelists

Resilience Prof. Abdullahi Elmi Asad
Amaal Said Jamac
Panel discussion
Zahra Abukar Ismail
Asli Ducaale

14.00 – 15.00 Group work

Women, climate change and resilience
Facilitator
Cumar Faaruuq
15.00 – 15:30 Plenary session covering both sessions

15:30 – 16:30 Refreshments and Press Q & A

18.30 – 20.30 Dinner hosted by the Governor of Banaadir For participants of Convention
Regional Administration & Mayor of Mogadishu

DAY 3 – WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019

08:00 – 09:00 Registration All

09:00 – 9:30 Presentation of previous’ day outcomes and Inclusive participation

Introduction of today’s Programme

9.30 – 10.30 Session 5 – Justice for Women and Girls Panelists

Axmed Cali Dahir
(refreshments) Panel discussions
Tahliil Haji
• Gender based violence Sahra Mohamed Ahmed
• Transitional justice and a justice system that works
for all: from gender sensitive legislations to effective
institutions Women and transitional justice

11.30 – 12:00 Breakout groups Facilitator

Sadia Mohamed Nur
• Group 1: Gender based violence
Facilitator
• Group 2: Transitional justice and a justice
Suheyba Badqas
system that works for all: from gender sensitive
legislations to effective institutions

12.00 – 12.30 Presentation in plenary Facilitator

Identification of key issues for inclusion in the Suheyba Badqas & Sadia Mohamed Nur
women charter

12:30 – 13:30 PRAYER AND LUNCH

13.30 – 14.15 Session 6: Innovation and Women Pioneers Panelists

Iman Ahmed
Panel discussions
Sumaya Nur Abdi
Sadiyo Siad
Sahra Alasow

53
14.15- 15.15 Group Session (followed by plenary) Facilitator
Nasrin Ibrahim
(coffee) Suggested interventions to amplify women’s
empowerment and contributions to peace and
sustainable developments

13.30 – 14.15 Session 7: Advocacy around the passing and Panelists

implementation of SOB and anti-FGM bills Zahra Siyad Naleye
– best practices Sheikh Cumar Xerow
Sahra Omar
Panel discussions
Maalin
Sheikh Hassan Sheikh Ahmed Siyaar

14.15 – 15.15 Group Session Facilitator

(coffee) (followed by final plenary session) Nasrin Ibrahim
Draft plan of action to support passing and
implementation of SOB and anti-FGM bills

15:15 – 15:20 Women’s importance in the security Speaker

of Somalia Amb. Francisco Madeira

15:20 – 15:25 Sweden supporting Somali Women’s Speaker

Advancement Amb. Andreas von Uexkull

15:25 – 15:40 The impact of the Convention in relation to Ms. Halima Ismail
2020 elections

15:40 – 15:55 Presentation of the Women’s Charter Minister Deqa Yasin

15.55 – 16.25 Closing Ceremony Prime Minister of Somalia

Signing and handover of Women Charter Hassan Ali Khaire

16.25 – 17:10 Refreshments and Group Photo

17.10 – 17.40 Press Q & A

54 somali women’s convention report

The Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development
of the Federal Republic of Somalia
would like to thank its partners for the support
in implementing the event.