DATE : 12th June to 20th June 2019
VENUE: Horyal Conference room, Horyal Hotel, Baidoa, Somalia
CONTEXUAL
Somali women continue to experience inequality and hardship as a result of poverty, ongoing political insecurity, and a deeply clan-based culture—one that promotes a strict, male-dominated hierarchy that exercises authority over and subordination of women. In the Southwest State of Somalia (SWS), 2 women (of 8 seats) were elected to the Upper House and 12 women (of 69 seats) were elected to the Lower House. At the local government level, only Berdale has secured the election of 2 women out of 21 councilors. The major challenges that prevent women from actively participating in public decision making and political processes have been identified as the clan-based system; social, cultural, and traditional norms and stereotypes; limited education and professional experience; lack of confidence; and limited financial resources.
Within this context and in response to the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Strategy of the Somalia Stability Fund (SSF) II, FCA—in partnership with Centre for Research and Dialogue (CRD)—is proposing a 21-month project aimed at enhancing effective and meaningful participation and representation of women in decision making and political processes in three target districts of the SWS. This will be achieved through 1) improved capacity, confidence and skills of women to effectively participate; 2) developed and strengthened effective policies and mechanisms for participation and representation of women; and 3) strengthened advocacy and public awareness to promote inclusive institutions, and women’s participation and representation.
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