Entrepreneurship is vital to Somalia’s economy, driving its growth and development. However, women in Somalia face multi-layered barriers to accessing the labor market, and they bear the brunt of the challenges arising from poverty, conflict, and a clan-based culture that promotes strict male hierarchy and authority. These difficulties are further worsened by the impact of climate change, particularly drought, which has severely affected their livelihoods. Additionally, a combination of household and childcare responsibilities, limited economic resources, cultural limitations, and illiteracy often compel many women to remain at home or establish small businesses near their homes, away from the potential business opportunities in the towns.
Within this context, Nomadic Assistance for Peace and Development (NAPAD) has been empowering small-holder businesswomen and youth in settlements for the displaced in the Kahda and Garasbaley districts of the Banadir region in Somalia in partnership with Terre des Hommes (TdH) with funding from The Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development – Germany (BMZ). The project champions for the empowerment of women and youth by building their capacities and abilities, enabling them to attain economic and social independence. The project aims to strengthen their resilience amid the climate crisis, by supporting them with more sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Zeinab Adan Bilal is among the beneficiaries of this project, which includes 100 women and youth. Living in Garasbaley district, Zeinab owns a shop that sells clothing. She expressed her gratitude, stating, “We were taken to Bakara market, where I selected the clothes, I wanted to sell, and they were purchased for me by NAPAD.” With an improved stock for her business, Zeinab has been able to expand her operations and now comfortably support her family. Other beneficiaries of the project engage in various businesses such as tailoring, weaving, and shop-keeping. Similar to Zeinab, all these businesses received in-kind business support valued at $350 after completing the entrepreneurship training. Zeinab aspires to grow her business further, aiming to achieve self-independence and effectively provide for her family.
The impact of this project extends beyond the direct beneficiaries, as it benefits both individuals and the wider community. By enhancing the financial capacities of women and youth and improving their management and technical skills in running income-generating activities, the project strengthens the resilience of their businesses. This, in turn, leads to increased profitability, boosting household income and enabling families to provide for their basic needs such as food, education, healthcare, clothing, and shelter improving their living standards.
The positive effect of the project also extends to the community. The local economy experiences a boost as businesses witness a rise in profits. Additionally, the project fosters relationships with local suppliers, creating mutually beneficial partnerships. These networks and economic growth contribute to the overall development of the community, further enhancing its well-being and development.