Badhan, Somalia: In collaboration with the Horn Dialogue Foundation and with funding from the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, SEDO Somalia delivered a training and awareness-raising event in Badhan under the Youth for Democracy Clubs (Y4DC) initiative. The event equipped young participants with a stronger foundation in governance, democratic practice, peacebuilding, human rights, and political representation.
The training convened youth from across Badhan, including students from Maakhir University, for a focused examination of democratic principles, good governance, and civic participation anchored in the recognition that young people will play a defining role in Somalia’s future. Participants explored practical ways to foster peaceful communities, mitigate conflict, and contribute to the country’s ongoing development and reconstruction.
A key thread throughout the training was the case for women’s meaningful political participation. Facilitators and participants discussed the significant contributions women make to Somali society and the continued need to expand pathways for women to take part in decision-making and national development.
The Y4DC model is designed to cultivate a generation of informed, civically engaged young leaders capable of advancing democratic processes, sustaining dialogue, and building inclusive, peaceful communities. This focus carries particular weight in Somalia, where youth make up a substantial share of the population and are positioned to shape the nation’s trajectory in the years ahead.
This training was made possible through the support of the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, part of a broader effort to reinforce democratic participation and civic engagement across Somalia. SEDO Somalia thanks the students and community members who took part, and acknowledges the continued partnership of the U.S. Government in advancing Somalia’s democratic institutions.
SEDO Somalia remains dedicated to strengthening good governance, democracy, and peace-building by creating space for young people and women to take on meaningful roles across Somalia’s political, social, and development landscape.
