Dhahar, Somalia: SEDO Somalia, in partnership with the Horn Dialogue Foundation and with funding from the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, conducted a civic education and awareness-raising session in Dhahar, introducing high school students to the Youth for Democracy Clubs (Y4DC) initiative. The session strengthened students’ understanding of democratic values, civic responsibility, peacebuilding, and the vital role young people play in shaping Somalia’s future.
The session brought together high school students from Dhahar for an interactive exploration of democratic principles, good governance, human rights, peaceful dialogue, and responsible citizenship. Participants were encouraged to become active contributors to their communities promoting tolerance, preventing conflict, and advancing peaceful solutions to local challenges.
Special emphasis was placed on empowering young people as agents of change. Through the Y4DC initiative, students are building leadership skills, learning to engage in constructive dialogue, deepening their understanding of civic rights and responsibilities, and preparing to participate meaningfully in community and democratic life.
Inclusive participation was a central theme, with facilitators highlighting the importance of engaging young women and girls in leadership, decision-making, and civic life. By creating equal opportunities for young men and women to take part, the initiative is helping foster more representative and inclusive communities across the region.
Through Y4DC, SEDO Somalia and its partners aim to cultivate a generation of informed, responsible, and socially engaged young citizens equipped to champion peace, dialogue, democratic values, and sustainable community development.
This initiative is made possible through the generous support of the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening civic awareness, democratic participation, and inclusive engagement among Somali youth.
SEDO Somalia extends its sincere appreciation to the students, teachers, community members, and partners whose engagement made this session a success. SEDO Somalia remains committed to empowering young people across Somalia as positive agents of peace, democracy, and sustainable community development.
