MOGADISHU, (SONNA) – Somalia today marked a historic milestone with the launch of its first-ever National Human Rights Conference, held in the capital Mogadishu and organized by the Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development of the Federal Government of Somalia.
The three-day conference was officially opened by the Second Deputy Prime Minister, H.E. Abdisalan Abdi Ali (Dhaay), who praised the Ministry for its leadership in organizing the groundbreaking event. “Somalia is now in a defining moment,” he said. “It is time for our country to take the lead in upholding and protecting human rights.”
The conference brings together a diverse mix of participants, including cabinet ministers, members of the Federal Parliament, representatives from federal member states, international partners, and civil society stakeholders. The agenda focuses on the protection and promotion of human rights, with special attention to vulnerable groups such as women, children, and persons with disabilities.
Minister of Women and Human Rights Development, H.E. Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, emphasized the significance of the conference, noting that it is the first of its kind ever held in Somalia. “This conference showcases the progress of a new Somalia in advancing human rights. It also demonstrates our ministry’s commitment to safeguarding and empowering those most at risk,” she stated.
International representatives, including the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative, Mr. James Swan (represented by his Deputy, Mr. Mar Raisadom Zenenga), and the UK Ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis, applauded Somalia’s efforts. They reaffirmed their support for the Ministry’s initiatives and pledged continued collaboration to strengthen human rights protections in the country.
Throughout the conference, research findings related to human rights will be presented, alongside panel discussions on best practices and strategies for improving rights protections nationwide. The event represents a major step forward in Somalia’s ongoing journey toward justice, equality, and inclusive governance.
