Who We Are

Voice of Somali Women for Peace, Reconciliation, and Political Rights (VOSWP) is an independent, non-profit women’s organization dedicated to advocating for the cessation of war and the establishment of conditions conducive to peace. Formed on February 13, 1998, by a coalition of Somali women and their allies both in Somalia and across various Diaspora communities, including Canada, VOSWP’s rallying cry is “Enough is enough!” We uphold the belief that “peace is indivisible and universal.”

Advocating for the cessation of war and the establishment of conditions conducive to peace.

Our Goals

IMG-20240312-WA0278
  • Empower Somali women with their basic socio-political rights through adequate education, mobilization approaches, and conflict transformation skills to restore peace in their country.
  • Promote women’s rights and empowerment in all aspects of life, including political participation, decision-making, and leadership.
  • Enhance socio-political awareness on women’s development using various communication sources.
  • Youth empowerment through peace education.
  • Protect the environment to ensure peace, stability, and prosperity for all citizens.
  • Provide consultancy, conflict mediation/transformation, and research services.
  • Raise awareness about climate change and its impact on vulnerable communities.

Objectives

  1. Provide food aid, shelter, education, healthcare, and protection.
  2. Promote peace, justice, and effective governance.
  3. Address the root causes of war.
  4. Offer vocational skill training and informal education for youth, particularly for dropout girl children and teenagers.
  5. Initiate adult education in at least three districts.
  6. Establish Peacebuilding Centers.
  7. Form coalitions and partnerships involving people worldwide.
  8. Link and coordinate peace efforts of Somali women in the Diaspora and the homeland.
  9. Introduce education systems in critical urban/rural areas, including water points, prisons, and juvenile correction facilities.
  10. Establish culturally appropriate kindergartens in several districts.
  11. Stop the diffusion of small arms and other weapons fueled by the cycle of war and insecurity.
  12. Work towards the abolition of war culture.
  13. Advocate for the inclusion of Peace Education in the Somali curriculum policy.
  14. Promote women’s rights and empowerment in all aspects of life, including political participation, decision-making, and leadership.
  15. Raise socio-political awareness on women’s development using various communication channels.
  16. Empower youth through peace education.
  17. Protect the environment to secure peace, stability, and prosperity for all citizens.
  18. Provide consultancy, conflict mediation/transformation, and research services.
  19. Raise awareness about climate change and its impact on vulnerable communities.
  20. Support and establish agricultural cooperatives for women to enhance their economic empowerment and food security.

Mission

VOSWP is dedicated to promoting the voice of Somali women in socio-economic and political contexts, contributing to sustainable peace development through effective mobilization across different communication channels and educative approaches.

Vision

To see Somali women enjoying their basic socio-political and economic rights in a safe and secure environment.

Geographical Focus

VOSWP operates primarily in the Banadir, Hirshabelle, and Southwest regions of Somalia. We are committed to addressing the unique challenges and needs of these areas to foster sustainable and positive change.

Principles and Values

VOSWP is guided by a set of core principles and values that underpin all our activities:

Accountability

We are accountable to our beneficiaries, partners, and donors, ensuring transparency and integrity in all our actions.

Credibility

We maintain the highest standards of professionalism and trustworthiness.

Transparency

Our operations are open and transparent, fostering trust and collaboration.

Neutrality & Non-Violence

Maintaining impartiality and advocating for peaceful solutions.

Gender Fairness

Promoting equality and fairness for all genders.

Promotion of People's Participation

Encouraging active involvement and engagement of community members.

Preferential Option for the Poor

Prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable and marginalized groups.

Sustainability and Self-reliance

Fostering long-term solutions and independence.

Respect for Indigenous Knowledge, Cultural Values, and Religious Doctrine

Valuing and integrating local wisdom, traditions, and beliefs into our work.

Leadership Information

Founder

Amina Sharif Hassan

Chairlady

Nadia Sufi Abdi

Executive Director

Aini Abukar Gaal

Collaborate with Us

VOSWP is dedicated to promoting the voice of Somali women in socio-economic and political contexts, contributing to sustainable peace development through effective mobilization across different communication channels and educative approaches.