Throughout her career, Sundus Hussein (NoFYL’s psychosocial counsellor in Kismayo) has encountered many people in need of mental health support, but she believes that displaced women and girls are particularly vulnerable, grappling with mental distress. Together with her team, she provides a wide range of services, including one-on-one counselling, individual & group psychosocial sessions, psychoeducation, group discussions, and other psychosocial activities. These teams are instrumental in delivering vital mental health and psychosocial support to displaced women and girls.

“The displacement and deteriorating living conditions have significantly exacerbated the mental health status of many women we encounter,” Sundus explains. “Many come to us in critical stages, having exhausted almost all available resources and facing dire setbacks. It’s crucial that we stand by them during this time.”

Amino* has experienced these stresses first-hand. At just 18 years old, Amino had expected to be overwhelmed with the excitement of her new marriage with the man he loved. Instead, she is consumed with anxiety for her future. The abuse began subtly, with her husband abusing and demeaning her, which gradually escalated to physical violence. He beat her severely, leaving her bruised and terrified.

Emotional distress gradually crept into Amino’s life, leading to her to sever connections with others, and lose interest in daily routines. Confronted with this situation, Amino felt a profound sense of helplessness, each passing day darker than the last. With her anxiety and stress levels soaring, she decided to flee to her parents, but they kept sending her back to her husband, who promised to change. However, the devastating cycle of abuse continued. It left her in a state of depression so deep that, for the first time, she had difficulty eating and sleeping.

“When we first met her, Amino was in a miserable condition,” says Sundus. “She was overwhelmed with worry for herself and that of her children,” Sundus adds. The PSS counselors welcomed her with open arms, offering a safe and non-judgmental space to heal. Amid her ordeal, Amino found solace in the NoFYL’s psychosocial support. NoFYL facilitated individual counseling, then group counseling, support groups and medical assistance for her.”

Slowly, but surely, Amino began to glimpse the light at the end of the tunnel. After attending multiple psychosocial sessions, she was able to improve her mental health situation. “I became less worried and felt more capable and confident,” she said. “There was a huge difference in the way I was treated when I met NoFYL. Also through group counselling with other women, I get to hear stories of women who were going through similar situations and it made me realize I was not alone. It changed my mind a lot.”

In all, Amino received more than a dozen psychosocial support sessions that helped her overcome her stress and trauma. She managed to carve out a semblance of stability and is now recuperating at her parents home.

The Integrated GBV & CP program in Kismayo is supported by Somalia Humanitarian Fund (SHF).

“We like school very much, but without light, it is very difficult for us to read,” says Abdifatah, adjusting the solar-powered lantern now illuminating their study space. “Before, we had to stop studying early. We couldn’t even visit our neighbors or go to the toilet at night because it was too dark.”

Abdifatah dreams of becoming a teacher when he grows up. For him, studying hard—even at night—is the first step toward realizing this goal. “I want to help other children learn, just like my teachers help me,” he says with determination

In displacement sites across Bardheere, Doolow, and Belet-Xaawa in Gedo, thousands of children like Abdifatah face similar challenges. The lack of lighting not only disrupts their education but also limits their social interactions and poses safety risks. Without a reliable source of light, children are forced to rely on dim and unsafe alternatives, if any, making it nearly impossible to complete their studies after school.

To address this challenge, Northern Frontier Youth League (NoFYL), with support from UNICEF, distributed 1,500 solar-powered lanterns to displaced households across the three districts in Gedo region. The intervention is already making a significant impact, helping school-going children continue their education even after nightfall.

“Before, we had to stop studying early. Now, we can read at night and do our homework,” says Abdifatah.

For parents like Halima, a mother of four in Doolow, the lanterns brought relief: “Before, my children had to finish all their schoolwork before sunset. Now, they can read at night. I see a big difference in their learning,” she shares. “Even simple things like cooking or going to the toilet at night which was impossible before is now easier.”

The provision of solar lanterns is more than just a lighting solution; it is a lifeline for education. Many students in these displacement sites dream of a brighter future, but the absence of basic necessities like lighting hinders their ability to excel in school. For Fatuma, a 10-year-old in Belet-Xaawa, the change has been remarkable. “Now, I can read my books and do my homework. I feel happy because I don’t have to struggle in the dark.”

Beyond education, the lanterns have improved safety and restored a sense of normalcy for families. No longer do children have to navigate dark paths to shared latrines or end their evenings in fear. Instead, they can focus on their studies, visit neighbors, and engage in simple nighttime activities that many take for granted.

By bringing light to the displaced families, NoFYL and UNICEF are not just providing lanterns; they are illuminating pathways to knowledge, safety, and hope. As Abdifatah and his sisters flip through the pages of their school books under the steady glow of their solar light, one thing is certain — his dream of becoming a teacher is no longer limited by the setting sun.

Among these CRMs, the toll-free 2394 hotline provides 24-hour confidential support for women in crisis. The calls come primarily from women who are victims of violence, including gender-based violence. The experiences that women have on hotline calls can be the difference between finding safety or remaining in a violent situation.

“We receive 20 or more calls a day from all over Gedo,” explains Aisha Mohamed, a hotline attendant. “Calling the 2394 hotline is free. The cases are very different, and so are the people [seeking support]. We have an individual approach to everyone. Our goal is to listen carefully to the person so that the help is as effective as possible.”

The Hotline has become a key part of GBV referral pathways, particularly for those who may feel unable to speak to service providers in their local communities. Survivors often fear retribution, stigma, or a lack of available services, making confidential hotlines a crucial alternative.

In addition, helplines can provide marginalized groups including people with disabilities, male survivors or elderly people a safe way to report grievances, as they may be unsafe or uncomfortable to approach a facility in person

In the first ten months of 2024, more than 2800 people called for support – nearly 300 more than in the previous year, underscoring the importance of this service. Callers will be connected with trained social workers as well as legal and psycho-social support counsellors.

Anyone can call in and anonymously report their own incident, or even an incident they have witnessed, to receive coordinated and sustained support. The helpline allows GBV supporters to register their complaints, and also connects them to the service providers. A key feature of the 2394 hotline is its emphasis on confidentiality. Survivors often face significant societal pressure to remain silent about their experiences, particularly in cases involving intimate partner violence or cultural practices such as FGM

“Most calls come from women experiencing violence in marriage or other forms of GBV,” explains Aisha. “Sometimes, we receive calls from women in imminent danger, which is the hardest part of our job. In such cases, we act immediately, connecting them with our focal points who can intervene.”

One such intervention changed the life of Hodan*, a survivor of intimate partner violence. She recalls: “For years, I was trapped in an abusive marriage with no one to turn to. One day, I gathered the courage to call the hotline. The social worker listened to me, and within hours, I was connected to a safe space and GBV one-stop center. That call saved my life.”

Halima*, another survivor, shares her gratitude: “I never thought anyone would believe me or help me. But when I called the hotline, they listened. They supported me, and now I have a new beginning. I encourage every woman suffering in silence to reach out. You are not alone.”

Not all calls come from survivors themselves. Concerned individuals often report cases, leading to life-saving interventions. Aisha recalls a call from a man worried about a woman in his neighborhood:

“He called and said there is a woman next door, and she gets beaten every day. She never leaves the house”. Aisha immediately communicated with the GBV focal points in the area. ‘’We learned she was physically abused by her husband for years. She was not allowed to go outside or talk to anyone, including her neighbors.” Together with the community leaders, the woman got assistance, and Aisha is grateful to the man who made the call.

NoFYL is currently promoting the hotline service through different platforms, including the media, to raise awareness of the service. By raising awareness, they aim to ensure that every survivor knows help is just a phone call away.

NoFYL’s Toll-Free Hotline 2394 is more than just a number—it is a lifeline for thousands of survivors of gender-based violence. For many, it serves as the first point of contact in seeking justice and healing. Its impact extends far beyond individual cases, and helping to break the silence surrounding GBV. Its importance cannot be overstated. As awareness grows and the hotline expands, it will continue to play a pivotal role in Somalia’s efforts to combat gender-based violence, offering survivors a safe, confidential and empowering way to break free from violence.

*Names changed for privacy*

“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.

Amina’s ordeal began when she was just 8 years old. Forced to undergo FGM, she suffered excruciating pain and bled for days, eventually losing consciousness. Since that day, she endured chronic pain, particularly while urinating.

“When I first came here to the safe space, I thought there was no hope for me,” Amina* shared, her voice filled with emotion. “The pain was unbearable, and I was scared I wouldn’t survive.”

Thanks to the medical outreach program supported by UNFPA and KOICA, Amina’s life took a turn for the better. The trained healthcare team at the Women and Girls Safe Space in Kahda, Mogadishu,  immediately attended to her, stopping the bleeding, managing her pain, and treating the infection. Additionally, transportation support ensured Amina and her mother could reach the health facility without financial burden.

“I am so grateful to the team here,” Amina’s mother said. “They saved my daughter’s life. I don’t know what we would have done without their help. Seeing her suffer was unbearable, and I have vowed never to let any of my other daughters undergo the cut. This practice must end.”

Amina’s story is sadly common in Somalia. Globally, the statistics are staggering; an estimated 230 million women and girls have been subjected to FGM, a human rights violation that involves the removal or injury of female genitalia for non-medical reasons. Somalia has the highest prevalence of FGM in the world, with 98 per cent of girls aged 5-11 undergoing type 111 infibulation, the most severe form. The practice has devastating consequences, including chronic pain, infections, depression, birth complications, sexual health problems, infertility and even death.

Several factors perpetuate this harmful practice, including religious misconceptions, cultural norms, fear of ostracism, and limited awareness of its dangers. Many Somalis believe FGM is a religious requirement, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Often, women who have undergone FGM advocate continuing the tradition

“Many families don’t realize the harm caused by FGM,” said Ekhlas, a nurse at the WGSS. “It’s not just a physical violation; it affects every aspect of a girl’s life. Our goal is not only to provide medical care but to educate communities on why this practice must end.”

Through awareness campaigns, Northern Frontier Youth League (NoFYL) is actively engaging communities to highlight the dangers of FGM and advocate for its abandonment. Our efforts are fostering conversations and creating hope for a future where girls can thrive without fear of such harmful practices.

For Amina, the support she received at the WGSS was transformative. With her health restored, she has returned to school in the IDP camp.

“I feel strong and healthy again,” Amina said, her face lighting up with a smile. “Now I can dream about the future.”

Her mother added, “Seeing her laugh and play again gives me so much joy. I am forever grateful for the help we received.”

*name changed to protect identity*

“I was in so much pain and felt completely helpless,” Shukri recalls. “I didn’t have money to go to the hospital, and I was afraid to ask my husband for help. I thought this was my life forever.”

Shukri’s turning point came during one of the awareness campaigns at Bula Gadud IDP site. These awareness campaigns by NoFYL aim to educate communities about the signs of GBV, available support services, and the importance of seeking help. Inspired by the information she received during the campaign, Shukri reached out to a NoFYL caseworker and opened up about her struggles.

The response was immediate. NoFYL’s case workers swiftly responded to Shukri’s needs. She was provided with immediate medical attention to address her injuries, followed by ongoing psychosocial support. This holistic approach not only helped her recover physically but also gave her the strength to rebuild her emotional well-being.

“She was in a lot of pain when she came to us,” says Amina Mohamed, a nurse with NoFYL. “We treated her injuries and ensured she had the necessary care to heal. It was heartbreaking to see what she had been through, but we’re glad we could help her regain her health.”

Shukri’s recovery was further supported by sessions of psychosocial support, with counsellors who worked closely with her to address the emotional scars left by her experience.

“Shukri was deeply affected by her ordeal,” explains Sundus Hussein, NoFYL’s counselor. “Through counseling, we helped her regain confidence and understand that what happened to her was not her fault. Seeing her regain her smile was a moment of hope for all of us.”

Recovery did not come easy for Shukri. She was not convinced the psychosocial support and medical assistance would help, and she did not improve much in the beginning. She found it difficult to trust people to talk about her ordeal. But her counsellors, led by Sundus, were dedicated. Slowly, but surely Shukri began to glimpse the light at the end of the tunnel. In all, Shukri received more than a dozen psychosocial support sessions that helped her overcome her stress and trauma.

In a complementary effort, NoFYL caseworkers and camp leaders took a proactive step by engaging with Shukri’s husband to address the root of the violence. They educated him on the consequences of GBV and its impact on their family, emphasizing the need for change.

“Many men don’t fully understand the harm they cause,” says Istahil Sugow, NoFYL’s caseworker. “We explained to him the impact of his actions and the legal consequences if he continued. He admitted his wrongdoing, blamed it on the devil, and promised to change.”

Today, Shukri is on the path to rebuilding her life. Her health has improved significantly, and she feels more empowered to care for herself and her children. She remains grateful for the support she received from NoFYL.

“I don’t know what I would have done without NoFYL,” Shukri says. “They gave me the care I needed and showed me that I’m not alone. Their help meant everything to me and to women like me.”

Shukri’s story highlights the importance of accessible GBV services and community awareness in addressing gender-based violence. Through our interventions, we are not only saving lives but also fostering safer, more informed communities.

“No woman should have to suffer in silence,” Halima Aden emphasizes. “Support is available, and we are here to help them find it.”

For Shukri, the journey to healing continues, but she stands as a testament to the resilience of women and the power of compassion in breaking the cycle of violence.

*Name changed to protect identity

This training aimed to cultivate a vision of a healthier, safer, and more peaceful community by addressing power dynamics and exploring strategies to mobilize collective power to prevent sexual violence. Key topics included sexual violence, self-awareness, social norms, and community dialogue facilitation, all with the goal of creating an environment where survivors can access compassionate, high-quality, survivor-centered services.

“In our community, harmful practices like early forced marriage, female genital mutilation, have long been seen as normal. These harmful traditions cause deep physical and emotional pain, yet they persist because of societal pressure and fear of change. Through this training, I’ve realized how these practices violate our rights and perpetuate cycles of suffering. It’s time for us, as a community, to break free from these harmful norms and protect our women and girls. We must stand together to shun these practices completely and embrace a future of dignity and equality for all.” say Fadumo Farah, a CDL from Wadajir.

“This training has opened our eyes to the impact of harmful social norms. We now have the tools to lead meaningful conversations that challenge these practices and inspire change within our communities.” — Sadaq Mohamed, CDL from Waaberi.

During the training, participants engaged in an exercise where they selected a facilitator and co-facilitator to practice using the discussion guide. Paired participants were assigned a topic and given 1 hour and 30 minutes to lead a discussion session, while others observed and assessed the facilitators’ skills in facilitation and active listening.

“As a Community Dialogue Leader, I now understand the power of open and honest conversations in driving change. I am committed to cascading the knowledge and skills I’ve gained from this training to my community in Waaberi. By facilitating dialogues, we can challenge harmful norms and practices, empowering our people to embrace a culture of respect, safety, and equality. As leaders, we have a responsibility to drive change by challenging traditions that harm our women and girls.” — Mohamud Omar, CDL from Waaberi.

The Empowered Communities, Including Boys and Girls, to Fight Violence Against Women and Children in and Around Schools project aims to reduce violence against women, boys, and girls by creating safer schools and communities. It seeks to transform harmful social norms into positive ones that uphold dignity, safety, and equity for women, boys, girls, and their families in the Banadir and Galmudug regions of Somalia.

CDLs Photos:

“When I received the cash, I felt so happy. I felt for the first time that I could take a meaningful step forward,” Qulud shared, reflecting on how the assistance gave her an opportunity to make meaningful choice for her family. Qulud used part of her cash assistance to purchase a pregnant goat that is due to give birth in a month, an investment with the potential to transform her family’s future.With the goat providing milk soon, she plans to use some for her children and sell the surplus to earn a small income. She used the rest of the money to buy food for her children.

“This will allow me to depend less on others,” she explained. “Having the ability to earn something on my own, even if it’s small, makes me feel like I can support my family better.” she says, indicating that the assistance will provide a much-needed respite from her struggles.

In October, a total of 300 households (150 CP, 150 GBV) were provided with $50 as cash voucher assistance. Through initiatives like the Identification, Documentation, Tracing, and Reunification (IDTR) process, NoFYL’s assistance strengthens families, ensuring a safer and more stable environment for vulnerable children.

Out of the 150 families who received CP CVA support, 85 households reported that the cash allowed them to purchase nutritious food for their children. “Now, I can make sure my children have enough to eat for a month or two,” shared one caregiver. “Having consistent meals has makes a difference in their physical health and happiness. We also used the part of the money to buy clean water.”

For 13 families, the assistance helped secure shelter by covering rent or making necessary repairs, giving children a safe place to grow. “Our home is secure, and I no longer worry about where we will sleep,” one beneficiary shared. “Stability means my children can have a home and live a normal life.”

Additionally, 33 families used the funds to purchase clothing, bedding, and hygiene supplies. “These essentials help children feel confident and comfortable, especially in social settings,” a caregiver said. For many families, the dignity and security provided by basic items like clean clothes and hygienic living conditions significantly improve quality of life and social inclusion.

For Habiba*, a mother of five from Kismayo, the cash assistance from NoFYL has been a vital lifeline. Drought and ongoing conflict had forced her and her family to move to Kismayo, where she could barely scrape a living through odd washing jobs that earned her US$8 a month. She received US$50 which she used to start a small business selling tea, snacks and other food items to fellow IDPs. While she notes the amount provided isn’t enough, she is determined to save and gradually expand her kiosk. But for now, she can cover most of her family’s essential needs including buying medicine for her young son who is sick.

Beyond meeting immediate needs, the cash assistance helped some families explore sustainable income-generating activities. The use of mobile money allowed the recipients to retain the cash in their mobile wallets and make purchases, at their choosing, from local shops and vendors. One of the main advantages of unconditional cash transfers is that beneficiaries have the freedom to spend aid money on what is best for them, depending on their family’s needs. Two families, like Qulud’s, invested in livestock, buying goats to provide milk for consumption and sale. This small investment creates opportunities for ongoing income and food security, empowering caregivers and fostering resilience.

“Having this goat means so much to me and my family,” Qulud says. “It is a small beginning, but it represents hope. I am creating something that will support us in the long-term.”

As Qulud reflects on her journey, she voices a common sentiment: “Cash is good, I can manage it better and choose what I want. This support has made me feel seen and valued. I hope NoFYL will continue to stand with mothers like me, and consider increasing the assistance we receive so that we can fully cover our pressing needs.”

NoFYL’s cash voucher assistance (CVA) is critical to reducing vulnerability. The transfers offer flexibility, dignity and efficiency in addressing people’s diverse needs. The assistance demonstrates how direct support empowers vulnerable families, helping them overcome immediate challenges and build sustainable solutions. For Qulud and countless others, financial relief has offered dignity, stability, and the courage to envision a brighter future for their children.

CVA Photos:

Through our integrated approach with SHF partners in Kismayo, specifically in the Bula Bartille area, we provided essential, multi-sectoral support to vulnerable women, contributing significantly to their well-being and protection. Through collaboration with AYUUB, NoFYL provided 8 women with dignity kits alongside Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance (MPCA), enhancing their resilience by meeting basic needs and reducing their exposure to potential GBV risks linked to economic vulnerability. Seven postnatal women accessing antenatal, maternity, and postnatal care at the SHFI health center in Bulla Bartille also received dignity kits and protection materials from NoFYL. These dignity kits, containing essential hygiene items, have been vital in supporting the women with hygiene needs throughout the postpartum period, helping them maintain cleanliness and personal care.

Fatuma*, a new mother, shared how the support has positively impacted her recovery: “After childbirth, I worried about staying clean and healthy in our living conditions. The dignity kit provided by NoFYL was a blessing. I felt respected and cared for, knowing that people understand what we need during such a vulnerable time.” This assistance, small but significant, brings hope and a sense of self-worth back to women like Fatuma, who are in the delicate period of new motherhood.

Through a coordinated approach, SHF partners reached five sites including Bulla Bartile, Bulla Gaduud, Turqato and Karan Usle sites in Kismayo, registering beneficiaries and ensuring they were well-informed about the services available. This outreach went beyond distribution – it was about connecting with the community, understanding their unique challenges, and providing targeted support. Muna, a young woman from one of the displacement camps, participated in an awareness session facilitated by NoFYL and SHF partners. She shared how this experience changed her outlook: “The awareness sessions by the SHF partners taught me about my rights and the services I could access. Each partner took time to explain what they do and made sure we understood and that there’s help available when I need it.”

The integration has not only empowered the displaced communities but has streamlined service provision across the camps. With partners working closely, referrals and access to services have been made simpler and faster. The collaboration allows NoFYL and other SHF partners to address pressing needs like protection, healthcare, financial support, and hygiene essentials more effectively.

Through this integrated approach, SHF partners led by NoFYL have built a network that addresses the physical, financial, and social needs of these communities. Access to services, previously a complex process that required multiple steps and referrals, has been streamlined. For many women, it has become easier to access services as they know they can visit one partner and receive referrals for other necessary services. The seamless connection between partners has bolstered trust among community members, making them feel heard and valued. It has proven that the power of partnership extends beyond resources.

A community leader from Bulla Bartille site explained how integration has reshaped the perception of support within the camps: “Our people used to hesitate to ask for help, but now they see the coordinated support from SHF partners and know there’s a system here to help them. They no longer feel like they’re alone and by themselves. Our relationship with all the SHF partners has greatly improved.” With each service – from protection to MPCA, from healthcare to WASH and Nutrition services – the displaced community in Kismayo are seeing a change and accountability – woven from collaboration and shared commitment.

Integration Photos:

While having access to period products is a public health and human rights issue, in Somalia, women like Amina struggle to obtain them. In Kismayo, a packet of period pads costs about USD$1, but a large part of the displaced community cannot afford that. Oftentimes, women and girls are forced to use torn clothes and other materials, which, besides being uncomfortable and unhygienic, can cause various harms, especially to women and girls who have been subjected to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). 

To help resolve this situation, Northern Frontier Youth League (NoFYL), with support from Somalia Humanitarian Fund (SHF), provided dignity kits containing essential items to 89 women and adolescent girls across displacement sites in Kismayo. These kits enables women and girls restore their confidence and participate in public life and community decision-making processes. They contain items such as sanitary pads, Somali dress, shawl, women’s underwear, headscarf, petticoat, and bar soap, gave Amina and many other women and girls the tools they needed to manage their periods with dignity.

Mariam* waits patiently amid the bustling distribution, where the air is filled with chatter and the hopeful expressions of women and girls eager to receive the dignity kits. When her name is called, she swiftly makes her way. When she reached the registry desk, she provided her name and age, signing the list before receiving her kit. She then joined the rest of the group in verifying that the items in their bags matched the contents of the dignity kit.

“I came here today hoping to get this kit,” Mariam shares. “We received three of each item, and I especially love the dirac (Somali dress). The ones I have are worn out, and I only own three, so changing them is difficult. I plan to give one of the new dirac to my daughter. All the other items in the bag are valuable, and we are grateful to NoFYL for this great support,” says Mariam, showing us the torn dress she was wearing during the distribution.

On the International Day of the Girl Child, observed on October 11th, NoFYL marked the occasion by distributing dignity kits to adolescent girls in displacement sites across Kismayo. As part of the distribution, we engaged in conversations with the girls to discuss their challenges and break down taboos surrounding menstrual hygiene. We also shared information on gender-based violence, services available and reporting mechanisms.

Awal is a 14-year-old girl from Karan Usle site in Kismayo. She recalls using a piece of cloth when she first experienced her monthly period at 11, as it was the only alternative her mother could afford. 

“If the monthly periods suddenly started, I used to miss vital lessons. I had to run home to change the discomforting pieces of clothes I was using because my mother can’t afford sanitary pads,” says Awal, says Awal, who turned 14 in June.

Awal received three sanitary pads, chucking off the discomforting old cloths. “These rags were not only rough but also smelly and a breeding ground for infections. But the new ones are soft,” she explains.

Awal takes a moment to answer the question on how she feels the support could be improved. As she skims through the kits, she finally responds: “I wish we could receive dignity kits every month,” she said with a smile. “It would also be great if the sanitary pads were reusable; they’re much better than the disposable ones.” 

Habiba Mohamud, NoFYL’s case worker in Kismayo said, “In any crisis situation, sexual and reproductive health needs are often overlooked. Displaced women and girls have no source of income and prioritize the little money they have on food and other urgent family needs, leaving them unable to afford the sanitary products. This assistance is, therefore, invaluable.”

During the distribution, NoFYL team conducts awareness raising sessions for women and girls. Habiba leads these sessions: “Ensuring women and girls have access to essential GBV information is a vital part of our work. We conduct sessions which covers sexual and reproductive health, along with gender-based violence prevention, risk mitigation, and response services. These sessions also involve how women and girls can also take care of themselves. We try to make them more aware about their bodies, help them understand that menstruation is completely normal, and teach them about how to take care of their reproductive health,” explains Habiba

Distribution Photos: