In Southwest State (SWS) of Somalia, communities face a complex set of challenges including violent conflict, radicalisation, displacement, and limited access to sustainable livelihoods. These issues not only threaten stability but also hinder the long-term development and wellbeing of the population. Habitat Action and Peace (HAP), a dedicated Somali non-governmental organisation, has been working tirelessly to respond to these challenges through locally led, people-centered approaches that strengthen resilience and foster peace.

Over the past three years, HAP has designed and implemented programmes that focus on preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE), promoting social cohesion, and enhancing citizen participation in decision-making. Recognising that radicalisation is often driven by unemployment, political marginalisation, and weak governance structures, HAP works with youth, women, elders, and community leaders to tackle these root causes.

Promoting Inclusive Dialogue and Peacebuilding

One of HAP’s core interventions is the facilitation of dialogues and workshops that bring together different community actors. These events provide safe spaces for constructive conversations, enabling citizens to voice their concerns and engage with decision-makers. For example, in Baidoa and other districts of SWS, HAP has conducted multi-day workshops that have successfully built trust between communities and local authorities, paving the way for more inclusive governance.

Strengthening Community Resilience

HAP also focuses on resilience by empowering vulnerable groups, especially young people, with skills and opportunities that reduce the risk of recruitment into violent groups. Through training, mentoring, and awareness-raising initiatives, HAP supports youth to become peace ambassadors and active contributors to their societies. Women are equally central to this work, as they are not only victims of conflict but also powerful change agents who influence family and community decisions.

Evidence-Based Monitoring, Research, and Learning

A key strength of HAP is its commitment to generating evidence for stronger programming. The organisation integrates robust monitoring and learning systems into all projects, ensuring that activities are assessed for impact and lessons are used to refine strategies. In fragile contexts like Somalia, where data is often scarce, this emphasis on research and learning provides critical insights that inform donors, partners, and policymakers.

Looking Ahead

As Somalia continues to navigate challenges of peace, governance, and development, the role of local organisations such as HAP is more vital than ever. With its deep roots in Southwest State, HAP is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between communities and institutions, while ensuring that interventions are culturally appropriate and context-driven.

Moving forward, HAP remains committed to:

• Expanding programmes that address the drivers of radicalisation.
• Enhancing opportunities for youth and women to participate in peacebuilding.
• Sharing knowledge through learning events and research that benefit the wider peace and development community.

At Habitat Action and Peace, we believe that peace is not only the absence of violence but also the presence of justice, dignity, and opportunity. By continuing to invest in inclusive dialogue, resilience, and evidence-based programming, HAP strives to make Southwest State a region where communities can live in security and hope.