Supporting livelihoods and peaceful coexistence in Baidoa, Somalia

Context

After years of conflict and recurrent shocks, Somalia struggles with extreme poverty, displacement, and deteriorating living conditions.  In Baidoa, the largest city in South-West State, over 700,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) and 57,000 returnees live in more than 600 camps. The city faces immense challenges, including inadequate housing, food insecurity, poor access to water and sanitation, and limited livelihood opportunities.

High unemployment and lack of education, particularly among women and youth, worsen poverty and instability. Many households rely on precarious employment, leaving the region without skilled labour and hindering economic development. These challenges threaten social cohesion and economic resilience in Somalia.

Objective

Income opportunities for IDPs, returnees, and the host communities in Baidoa have increased, with a focus on women and young people.

Approach

The project addresses the challenges faced by IDPs, returnees, and host communities in Baidoa by focusing on three main areas of intervention:

• Improving employability: The project provides counselling services to help individuals access employment opportunities and develop livelihoods.
• Providing psychosocial support: The project boosts self-confidence and promotes peaceful coexistence within communities through group sessions and individual support.
• Training local actors: The project supports governmental and non-governmental actors by delivering targeted training and technical guidance to improve service delivery using context- and conflict-sensitive approaches.

The measures target 300,000 people, with a particular focus on women and youth.

Last update: February 2025