SOGEDO (Somaliland Gender Equality Development Organization) was founded in 2005 in response to the exclusion of women from the political and traditional spheres of decision-making, particularly during the 2005 Hargeisa conference. This conference highlighted the lack of meaningful participation of women in political processes, igniting the need for a collective voice that would advocate for women’s rights and gender equality in Somaliland.
In 2014, SOGEDO was officially registered as a local non-governmental organization (NGO), committed to empowering women and youth through education, health, human rights, and political participation. With a membership of 275 individuals, including 30 women in leadership roles, SOGEDO works tirelessly to bring positive change in key sectors. The organization’s work has been pivotal in raising awareness about gender issues and advancing social, political, and economic equality for women and youth.
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SOGEDO envisions a society where human dignity, equality, justice, and democracy prevail.
We aspire to create a gender-equitable Somaliland, where women and youth are educated, economically stable, and fully equipped to pursue their rights, participate in democracy, and lead the way to a prosperous future.
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Our mission is to promote, protect, and enhance human rights and democratic governance throughout Somaliland and beyond. We focus on empowering women and youth by advocating for their rights, promoting democratic principles, and ensuring their active participation in all aspects of society. SOGEDO strives to challenge social and political inequalities while supporting gender equality and sustainable development.
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SOGEDO operates on a set of core values that guide our work and interactions with individuals, communities, and the wider society. These values are:
Integrity for All, Transparency and Accountability, Commitment to the Cause of Women,Participation for All,Impartiality, Respect for All, Inclusivity and Sustainability.