When Abukar first arrived at NoFYL’s mobile Child-Friendly Space (CFS), he felt a mixture of nervousness and curiosity. “I didn’t know what to expect,” recalled the 14-year-old boy. “But seeing the welcoming environment and familiar faces helped me relax, and I started to feel more at ease.” Like many children affected by displacement and instability, Abukar had been longing for a sense of normalcy—a safe space where he could just be a child again.
“I love coming here because I can learn and read books,” shares 10-year-old Ayaan, whose family fled conflict months ago. “I want to be a teacher one day.”
NoFYL’s mobile Child-friendly spaces in Gedo provide more than just a physical refuge for children like Abukar and Ayaan. These vibrant hubs are places where children gather to play, learn, meet friends, and receive psychosocial support. Every activity, from writing and games to football, is carefully designed to support their mental, emotional, and social well-being.
For Abukar, the activities at the mobile CFS have been cathartic. “I really enjoy the mix of activities,” he shared. “Writing helps me express my thoughts, and learning something new feels rewarding. When I draw, I feel happy. I drew a picture of my old home, and it made me feel like I was there again,” says Abukar. “Playing football keep me active and happy.” He added that football, in particular, is what excites him the most and makes him look forward to returning to the CFS each day. The joy is palpable as children run, jump, and laugh, temporarily shedding the weight of their circumstances.
The sense of connection at the mobile CFS is equally impactful. “I’ve met some friends here, and it feels good to have others to talk to, play with, and share experiences,” Abukar said with a smile. “Being around other kids who understand or are going through similar things creates a kind of bond.”
The psychosocial support sessions are a highlight for many children. NoFYL’s trained counselors play a crucial role in fostering a nurturing environment, providing psychosocial support, helping children process their experiences and develop coping mechanisms
“One session really stood out to me,” Abukar recounted. “We talked about building confidence and staying motivated, and the facilitator used football as an example. It made me see the sport as more than just a game.”
NoFYL counselor, Hafsa Hussein, explained the importance of these sessions: “The CFS is a safe space where children can express themselves without fear. Through structured activities and open discussions, we help them heal, grow, and rediscover their confidence,” shares Hafsa. “When children leave the CFS at the end of the day, they often tell us how excited they are to come back – that’s the greatest reward — to know we’ve created a place they love and trust.”
However, Hafsa also highlighted a key challenge: “One of the biggest difficulties we face is the lack of a designated child-friendly space. The children currently sit in open spaces and conduct activities under challenging conditions. Having a proper, sheltered space would make a huge difference in ensuring their safety and comfort while they learn and play.”
The changes in Abukar and other children are evident. “Since coming here, I feel more confident and happier,” he said. “Before, I was really shy, but now I can make friends easier. I’ve learned to be brave and try new things.”
As we continue to operate mobile child-friendly spaces across displacement sites in Gedo, NoFYL remains committed to ensuring children have access to safe environments where they can thrive. These spaces not only provide immediate relief but also lay the foundation for a brighter, more resilient future for every child.