A UK-funded sexual and reproductive health service programme operating across 39 facilities in five Somali regions received a visit from the Duchess of Edinburgh during a two-day trip to the East African nation ahead of International Women’s Day.
The programme, which runs across Banadir, Bay, Mudug, Lower Shabelle and Galgaduud regions, provides support in areas significantly affected by insecurity, displacement and weak services. UK assistance helps strengthen service delivery, reducing stigma and fear associated with seeking care after sexual violence.
At a Mogadishu hospital on 24 February, the Duchess engaged in an emotional conversation with victims of sexual and gender-based violence supported by the International Rescue Committee-run programme. She heard testimonies about the terrible impact of female genital mutilation, rape and sexual assault on Somali women.
UK support to Somali organisations working with survivors of gender-based violence reached almost 130,000 women and girls between 2024 and 2025. Somali survivors received clinical support for health complications associated with GBV, hygiene and dignity commodities, and psychosocial support.
The visit, which took place 23-24 February, included meetings highlighting security threats posed by terrorist group al-Shabaab. At Uganda House in Villa Somalia, the Duchess and first daughter Jihan Abdullahi Hassan heard from victims of gender and sexual based violence perpetrated by al-Shabaab, reinforcing the importance of the UK-Somalia security partnership.
In a village in Lower Shabelle, wives of Somali soldiers explained the dangers posed by al-Shabaab and the challenges they face while their husbands fight for a more secure and stable Somalia.
Somali organisations and British Embassy partners, including Ifrah Foundation, ALIGHT Somali Women’s Leadership Initiative and the Somali Women Study Centre, described the challenging operating environment they face. Conflict, drought and scarcity of resources exacerbate the prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence, they told the Duchess.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud hosted the Duchess at Villa Somalia for an introductory call during which they discussed the crucial role women play in peacebuilding, strengthening community resilience and ensuring accountability for sexual and gender-based violence.
The Duchess welcomed the Federal Government of Somalia’s Women, Peace and Security National Action Plan and encouraged its sustained implementation to improve conditions on the ground.
The Duchess departed Somalia on 24 February to continue her regional tour. The visit took place ahead of International Women’s Day on 8 March, with the timing highlighting focus on women’s issues in conflict-affected regions.
The 39 UK-funded health facilities operate in regions where service provision faces particular challenges due to ongoing security concerns and population displacement. The programme’s reach across five regions demonstrates the geographic spread of UK support for Somali women affected by violence.
