A woman was assaulted in Mogadishu. She shouldn’t have feared being public. Women deserve safety. We need justice, accountability, and a society that protects women instead of blaming them. This is a human rights issue. We all have a role. #EndViolenceAgainstWomen#somalia#WHRD
I recently joined a Validation Baseline Assessment on HRDs in Somalia, organized by the Coalition of Human Rights Defenders in Somalia with DefendDefenders. Valuable discussions on strengthening protection, advocacy & collaboration. #HumanRights#WHRDs
Celebrating the achievements and leadership of women everywhere. In a connected world, equal opportunities and voices matter, online and offline. Let’s build a future where women can thrive in every space.
#InternationalWomensDay
Attended the National Climate Outlook Forum for Gu 2026, supported by @WMO, @FAO-SWALIM, @ICPAC. Key insights: wetter-than-average rains, localized dry pockets, rising heat, and flood risks. Focus on anticipatory action to protect communities, especially women and girls.
Marked the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM today. Ending FGM needs political will, strong laws, and action—not words. Advancing the Anti-FGM Bill is key to reaching the 2030 goal.
#ZeroTolerance#EndFGM#Somalia
Congratulations to @DrMaryanQasim Dr. Maryan Qasim Ahmed on her election as Chairperson of Somalia’s Independent Human Rights Commission. A powerful step for human rights, women’s leadership, and Somali-led justice. Wishing her strength and impact in this vital role.
UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.
Digital harassment silences, harms, and isolates. During the 16 Days of Activism we stand with survivors and call for safer online spaces for women and girls.
#16DaysOfActivism#EndGBV#EndDigitalViolence#SafeOnline
Women human rights defenders shared powerful lived experiences and perspectives on Somalia’s human rights landscape during a meeting with our Executive Director. Their courage, insight, and leadership continue to guide our mission forward. 💪🏾 #WHRD#HumanRights
Glad to have joined the National Climate Outlook Forum (NCOF – OND 2025) in Mogadishu. The event brought together experts and stakeholders to discuss climate science, forecasting, and building resilience for Somalia’s future.
#NCOF2025#ClimateAction#Resilience
Honored to join the SNMA Strategic Plan Validation Workshop in Mogadishu, a key step in strengthening Somalia’s climate resilience. Grateful to MoECC and WMO for leading this vital effort.
#climate#environomental#Somali
Today, we launch our monthlong wellbeing campaign, with our Executive Director @HassanShire highlighting the immense emotional strain human rights defenders (HRDs) face while fighting for the marginalised. Since 2005, DefendDefenders has recognised the need for psychosocial support of HRDs. A decade later, in 2015, we launched our wellbeing program, providing critical mental health support to defenders.
Amidst rising threats and shrinking civic space, HRDs' mental wellbeing is more crucial than ever. This month, we’re equipping HRDs with tools and knowledge to manage stress and trauma, prioritising their mental health and wellbeing.
#DefendingRightsProtectingMinds #20YearsDefending
In November 2025, DefendDefenders marks 20 years of protecting, promoting, and strengthening the work of human rights defenders (HRDs) across the East and Horn of Africa.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane, shall we?
Our Executive Director, @Hassan_Shire, reflects on our 20 year journey and shares that while regional and international mechanisms existed two decades ago to protect HRDs, there was a pressing need for something more—something tailored to the realities they were facing in 2005.
Hear the full story in this special episode of our Conversation with Defenders podcast.
Watch now: https://t.co/05bf25Op1u
#20YearsDefending
This week, our Executive Director and Chairperson of @AfricaDefenders, @Hassan_shire , along with members of our team are in Somalia to support efforts to strengthen the capacity of @DefendersSomali.
As part of this mission, the Board of Defenders Coalition Somalia convened on 14 May 2025 for the first time since its establishment in 2015. A key outcome of the inaugural meeting was the formal constitution of the Board’s leadership, with Chairperson Hassan Ali Gesey presiding.
We’re pleased to report significant progress in developing a new governance framework—a vital step that expands the secretariat’s capacity and enhances protection mechanisms, now guided by clearly defined strategic objectives.
#20YearsDefending
#HumanRights4All
Have you heard the great news?
Our Ttaala Workshop is going to West Africa in May!
Are you an Anglophone artist in West Africa using your art to promote human rights?
Apply to join the Ttaala Workshop, designed to equip you with the tools, knowledge, and strategies for data-driven creativity and impactful advocacy through a comprehensive digital skills training program in Abuja, Nigeria.
If you're interested, apply by 18 April 2025, as there are limited slots available!
To learn more about the workshop and find out if you're eligible to apply, visit our website: https://t.co/F6Zm5JJTjC
As we begin April, our Director of Programs and Administration, @MemoryBandera , reflects on our recently concluded month-long #SheDefends campaign, where we amplified the voices and work of Women Human Rights Defenders(WHRDs) across various thematic areas. While the campaign has ended, the fight for gender equality continues throughout the year. Now is the time to move beyond words and take deliberate, urgent actions—strengthening protection, dismantling systemic barriers, and creating an environment where WHRDs can operate safely and effectively.
Watch her message below; a call to action.
#Celebratinghercourage #20yearsDefending
Dr. Zahara Nampewo, Deputy Dean at @MakerereLaw, is a passionate advocate for gender justice and women’s rights. As a renowned WHRD in academia, Dr. Zahara encourages both young and older women to embrace their roles as WHRDs, identify the gaps they can address, and seize opportunities to take up space—despite challenges such as balancing traditional gender roles. Watch her discuss the importance of pushing boundaries and creating opportunities for women to fill these critical gaps.
#Celebratinghercourage #SheDefends #20YearsDefending #IWD2025
Today, on #WHRDDay, we celebrate and stand in solidarity with WHRDs in all their diversity whose bravery and strength know no bounds. You risk everything—your safety, freedom, and even your lives—to defend human dignity and justice for the marginalised and the voiceless. Your courage, resilience, and relentless efforts spark change and empower communities
#HerFightOurRights
"While global injustices are undeniable, our focus should be on the immediate suffering within our communities. Fear and hunger breed inhumanity, making it imperative to combat these issues at home. We must be champions for democracy, justice, and the vulnerable in our own backyard." - @Hassan_shire
Our Executive Director made these remarks during the opening of a four-day training session aimed at strengthening the technical and organisational capacity of the National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders-Somalia (NCHRD-S). This session will also serve as a platform for participants to develop an action plan to guide the coalition's future activities.