Somalia: Disabled Community Pushes for the Implementation of Somalia’s Disability Act.
Today, – (April 22, 2025), Mogadishu hosted a landmark convening on implementing Somalia’s National Disability Act, with a focus on empowering visually impaired youth. Organized by the Union of Blind Youth (UDHAN) and supported by the British Embassy in Somalia, the meeting brought together government officials, civil society leaders, and young people with visual impairments to chart a path forward for inclusive development.
Photos from the meeting:
Among the distinguished participants was Asad Abukar, Director of the Coalition of Somali Human Rights Defenders (CSHRD), who underscored the importance of creating sustainable advocacy platforms for disabled youth. “Effective implementation of the National Disability Act hinges on meaningful engagement with those it serves,” Abukar said. “Visually impaired young people must be equipped not only with skills, but with the confidence to claim their rights and shape policy.” His remarks were met with enthusiastic applause, reflecting broad support for CSHRD’s call to involve disabled youth in every stage of legislative rollout.
The meeting’s objectives were three‑fold:
1. Opening a Dialogue on Implementation
Stakeholders discussed practical steps to translate the Act into action, from drafting inclusive regulations to setting up monitoring mechanisms within ministries and local councils.
2. Hearing Youth Perspectives
Visually impaired participants shared personal experiences—highlighting barriers in education, employment, and public transportation—and proposed solutions such as audio‑described materials in schools and tactile signage in public spaces.
3. Building Advocacy Capacity
Workshops led by experienced trainers—including Abdirahman Kulane and Ahmed Dige—equipped young advocates with skills in public speaking, coalition‑building, and policy analysis. Salma Osman and Amal Abdullahi guided sessions on grassroots mobilization and effective engagement with media.
Throughout the day, UDHAN’s leadership emphasized that capacity building is central to ensuring Somalia’s disabled community “is not left behind” in national development. UK Embassy representatives reaffirmed their commitment to funding technical assistance to disabled community in Somalia.
At closing, organizers pledged to form a steering committee—chaired by a visually impaired youth nominee—to oversee follow‑up actions. Asad Abukar will join this committee in his capacity as CSHRD Director, ensuring that human rights perspectives remain integral to the National Disability Act’s rollout.
This meeting marks a significant step toward an inclusive Somalia where young people with disabilities possess both the voice and the tools to advocate for their full participation in society.
CSHRD Advocacy Desk