Name: Somali Disability Network (SDN)
Organization Type: National NGO
Sector: Disability Inclusion, Humanitarian Assistance, Advocacy
Location: Somalia
contact: Email: [email protected] Website: www.sdn.org.so
Background
The Somali Disability Network (SDN) is a national umbrella organization November 2019 committed to promoting the rights, inclusion, and dignity of persons with disabilities across Somalia. Founded in response to the increasing marginalization of people with disabilities, particularly in conflict-affected and displacement settings, SDN works with local communities, humanitarian actors, and government institutions to build an inclusive society where no one is left behind.
Build the organizational, technical, and advocacy capacity of local DPOs to effectively represent and serve people with disabilities in their communities. Advocate for and support the collection, analysis, and use of disability-disaggregated data to inform inclusive planning, policy development, and program. Facilitate access to inclusive education, vocational training, and livelihood opportunities to enhance economic independence and dignity.
SDN work is rooted in community empowerment, policy advocacy, and service delivery tailored to the unique needs of people with disabilities. SDN is active in numerous Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, providing disability-focused assessments, accessibility mapping, inclusive education outreach, and awareness-raising initiatives. Building strong partnerships with NGOs, UN agencies, government bodies, and civil society to advance disability inclusion in all sectors and at all levels.
SDN advocates for inclusive planning, disability disaggregated data, and representation in decision-making structures. We champion the full implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and actively participate in inclusive humanitarian response planning.
SDN welcomes partnerships, knowledge exchange, and collective action toward an inclusive humanitarian system. Through this forum, we aim to share our experiences, learn from others, and contribute to shaping inclusive responses that reach the most vulnerable.
SDN Work with humanitarian actors to ensure services in displacement camps and conflict-affected areas are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of persons with disabilities. Advocate for the full recognition and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and national laws.
Objectives
- Promote Disability Rights Inclusion and Raise Awareness to Combat Stigma
- Enhance Accessibility and Inclusion in Humanitarian Settings and the system
- Promote Universal Design infrastructure and communication systems
- Strengthen the Capacity of Disabled Persons Organizations (DPOs)
- Improve Disability-Disaggregated Data Collection and Referral Reports
- Empower Persons with Disabilities through Livelihoods and Education
- Influence Policy, Legislation, Foster Partnerships, and Coordination
- Funding disability-inclusive interventions and services across Somalia.
Vision
A society where all persons with disabilities are fully included, empowered, and enjoy equal rights, opportunities, and dignity in every aspect of life. United and Empowered active decision-making organs and tables.
Mission
To promote the rights, participation, and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Somalia through advocacy, capacity building, coordination, and collaboration with government, humanitarian actors, and civil society to ensure accessible and inclusive services, policies, and environments.
Areas of Interest:
- Inclusive humanitarian action and Disability-disaggregated data
- Accessibility in IDP camps and Inclusive education
- Livelihood support for persons with disabilities
- Policy and legal frameworks for disability rights
Looking to Connect With:
- Government policymakers and legislation
- INGOs, NGOs, and UN agencies working on disability and inclusion
- Researchers and data specialists
- Donors and development partners
- Advocacy networks and coalitions
Goals
Strengthen Coordination Among Stakeholders: Establish a unified platform among DPOs, NGOs, UN agencies, government institutions, and community actors working on disability inclusion. enforcement of national laws and policies that align with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and promote the rights of persons with disabilities.
Promote Inclusive Humanitarian and Development Responses and development planning, ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind. Advocate for accessible infrastructure, information, and communication systems in public services.
Enhance Disability-Disaggregated Data to provide reliable data on persons with disabilities. Advocate for inclusive for all design programs, monitoring, and evaluation. And capacity-building of persons with disabilities and their organizations to advocate for their rights and participate meaningfully in decision-making processes at all levels.