In training sessions, small-scale female farmers learn about climate-adapted farming methods, for example. © action medeor / WARDI Info In training sessions, small-scale female farmers learn about climate-adapted farming methods, for example. © action medeor / WARDI Somalia Strengthening Food Security and Livelihoods of Families Programs The complex crisis in Somalia, triggered by decades of ongoing conflict and recurring extreme weather events, coupled with a highly unstable political situation, has had fatal impacts on the living conditions of the Somali population. The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and the locust plague in Somalia have further exacerbated this situation. The project region, located by the river, is heavily affected by the impacts of climate change, including heavy rainfall and floods alternating with dry spells and droughts. In May 2021, a flood in Middle Shabelle temporarily displaced more than 11,000 households from 27 villages. The Jowhar district was particularly affected, with 72% of the displaced households. The current project is being implemented in this region. During the planning phase of the project, a feasibility study was conducted to optimally adapt the project measures to the current needs and situation of the population. This study revealed that small-scale farmers in the project communities often lack sufficient and high-quality production inputs such as seeds and fertilizers. There is also a lack of knowledge about effective farming methods and proper storage of harvest products. Additionally, insufficient knowledge about the marketing of agricultural products, as well as livestock management and health, hinders the agricultural success of small-scale farmers. The study also identified a need for action regarding healthcare, nutrition, and hygiene: The lack of clean drinking water and inadequate knowledge of healthy hygiene practices contribute to an increase in diarrheal diseases and recurring cholera outbreaks in the region. Diarrhea is one of the leading causes of death among children under five, especially when the children are simultaneously affected by malnutrition. Another issue is food supply: Both quantitative food shortages and the low diversity or quality of diets pose challenges in Somalia. Small-scale farmers often grow only a few crops and, due to low income, can afford only limited purchases of nutrient-rich foods such as fruits or vegetables. The lack of critical micronutrients (e.g., vitamin A or iron) can lead to severe health consequences and developmental impairments, especially in children under five. Moreover, women and girls in the project region are particularly exposed to numerous risks: These include lack of income, lack of access to information, child labor, and gender-based violence. Girls are particularly affected by lack of access to education, female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), as well as early and forced marriages. The local partner organization WARDI Relief and Development Initiatives was founded in 1993 as a non-profit organization in Somalia. WARDI's vision is that all people can live in dignity, freedom, and prosperity. action medeor and WARDI have been working together since 2011: Together, they have implemented various project measures in the areas of health, food security, water, and hygiene, and have provided emergency relief in acute situations such as droughts and floods. This current project, implemented by action medeor together with the local partner organization WARDI, addresses these diverse but interconnected issues. The project measures range from training for small-scale farmers, distribution of livestock and veterinary care, to improving hygiene conditions and access to drinking water, and conducting awareness campaigns to prevent violence against women. This comprehensive project approach ensures that a sustainable improvement in the livelihoods of the people is achieved, lasting beyond the project's duration. Project descriptionProject Goal: Improving food security and strengthening the resilience of families in Middle Shabelle, SomaliaProject Focus: Food security, Water & Hygiene, Maternal and Child HealthTarget Group: Directly: approximately 1,200 households (= 8,400 individuals) from 8 village communities; Indirectly: 2,490 households (= 17,430 individuals)Project Area: Somalia, Middle Shabelle Province, Jowhar DistrictProject Activities: Improving community structure and participation through the establishment and training of various village committees and rehabilitating roads Increased food production through training and provision of agricultural inputs (seeds, tools), vegetable gardens for women, improvements in (irrigation) infrastructure, and food storage Increased income through the provision of livestock (donkeys, goats, chickens) to women, veterinary services, and improved market access Improved nutrition and health practices, particularly for children, through the establishment and training of mother groups, cooking classes, and awareness campaigns for fathers Enhanced hygiene practices through training on hygiene and water purification (potentially including well construction) Raising awareness among all stakeholders about the protection of women and girls, particularly regarding gender-based violence, inclusion of people with disabilities, and community dialogues Project Duration: January 2024 – February 2028Financial Volume: €1,666,667Partner Organisation: Wardi Relief and Development Initiatives (WARDI)Funding: Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)Project Number: 6000235 Your Contact Person Alessandra Behler Programme Manager Somalia Phone: +49 2156 9788-114 TPL_EMAIL This email address is being protected from spambots. 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