The Somali Disability Network (SDN) commemorated International Human Rights Day on 10 December 2025 with a large public event in Mogadishu, bringing together over 70 participants from government institutions, civil society organizations (CSOs), organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), persons with disabilities (PWDs), parents, and community advocates. Similar observances took place across Somalia and globally under the theme “Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials,” emphasizing the universal importance of dignity, equality, and inclusion. The Mogadishu event featured speeches, discussions, and awareness activities highlighting the ongoing struggles and achievements in promoting human rights for marginalized groups, particularly children and adults with disabilities.
As part of the Human Rights Week activities, the period leading up to 10 December marked the conclusion of several major global campaigns, including the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (25 November 10 December), Disability Inclusion Week (3to 10 December), and Human Rights Day itself on 10 December. Throughout these overlapping observances, SDN and partners actively participated in and organized multiple awareness events in Mogadishu, bringing together CSOs, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) to promote human rights, disability inclusion, and protection from GBV across communities
A major focus of the event was the recognition of outstanding contributions within the disability community. Teachers and administrative staff of Rajo Primary and Secondary Deaf School were honored for their role in delivering quality education to deaf learners. Parents of children with disabilities were also acknowledged for their unwavering dedication, while students and families expressed gratitude to sign language interpreters, school bus drivers, and gatekeepers who ensure accessibility, safety, and daily support. These recognitions underscored the collective effort required to make inclusive education possible in Somalia.
Key speakers, including Mr. Hussein Botan, Mr. Abdi Dek, Mr. Abdullahi Hassan, and Mr. Abdijali Moalim Hassan, addressed the structural and financial barriers facing deaf, blind, and physically challenged learners. They highlighted the urgent need for expanded school facilities, improved accessibility, and strengthened support systems for learners with disabilities. Speakers also emphasized the importance of sign language, parental involvement, inclusive leadership, and advocacy by CSOs and OPDs. The testimonies of parents and educators reflected widespread challenges such as school fees, transportation costs, limited classroom space, and lack of specialized learning materials.
In discussions, participants raised serious concerns about the shortage of curriculum books, inadequate exam support, overcrowded classrooms, poor sanitation facilities, and unsafe learning environments during rainy seasons. Teachers called for capacity-building, structured sign-language curricula, and modern teaching tools, while the school administration highlighted the need for essential resources such as computers, libraries, and sign-language learning materials. These challenges demonstrate significant gaps in Somalia’s education system for children with disabilities and reflect the broader need for systemic policy reform and investment.
The event concluded with a set of strong recommendations aimed at advancing disability inclusion across Somalia. Stakeholders called for full implementation of the National Disability Act, alignment with the UNCRPD, investment in schools for deaf and blind children, expansion of skills training (TVET) for PWDs, and strengthened cooperation among government, OPDs, donors, and international agencies. Additional recommendations included supporting children affected by school dropout, ensuring access to safe learning spaces, and addressing discrimination in all forms. The event reaffirmed the commitment of SDN and its partners to ensuring that all persons with disabilities enjoy equality, dignity, and meaningful participation in society
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