Youth Centers

Shaqodoon Organization currently operates one fully functioning youth center, with two more under construction in Berbera and the Southwest State of Somalia. These centers play a vital role in providing a nurturing environment for youth and women. The activities conducted at the centers include counseling on sexual and reproductive health, family planning, nutrition, and psychosocial support. Educational and vocational training programs are also offered to enhance the skills and employability of young people. In addition, the centers actively engage in community-level outreach programs to raise awareness and promote social inclusion. Through these initiatives, the youth centers act as catalysts for positive change, equipping young women and men with the necessary tools to break the cycle of poverty and become independent, productive members of society.

In 2022, the Gabiley youth center, operated by Shaqodoon Organization, witnessed significant achievements. A total of 19 activities and trainings were held at the center, engaging 1,572 youth. These activities ranged from vocational and technical trainings in areas such as tailoring, beautification, and digital skills, to awareness programs on critical topics like drug abuse, sexual and reproductive health (SRH), Gender-based violence (GBV), hygiene and sanitation, and breastfeeding. Furthermore, the newly established clinic at the center received 16 visits within its first two weeks, providing essential healthcare services to the community.

Shaqodoon Organization remains dedicated to promoting gender and social inclusion in Kenya, particularly in the Northeastern region. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by youth and women in the area, Shaqodoon Kenya is committed to establishing similar safe spaces and youth centers to address their needs effectively. Through counseling, training programs, outreach initiatives, and healthcare services, we aim to empower young individuals, enhance their skills, and promote their social inclusion. By replicating the success achieved in Somaliland, the organization strives to break barriers, foster independence, and create opportunities for the youth and women of Northeastern Kenya.

Project Outcomes

The Bits Digital Design School project has achieved the following notable outcomes:

• Transformation of Lives through Specialized Digital Skills:

Shaqodoon Organization's digital design schools focus on providing marketable skills to underprivileged youth. By offering specialized training in digital skills such as Motion Design, Graphic Design, and Web Development, Shaqodoon empowers these young individuals to become productive members of society. Through this program, they gain the necessary expertise to contribute positively to their communities and realize their potential.

• Graduates and Employment Opportunities

  In 2022, a total of 121 students graduated from the digital design schools across all three locations. These graduates acquired a diverse range of digital skills, enabling them to pursue various career paths in the dynamic field of digital design. The training received equips them to meet the demands of the job market and secures meaningful employment opportunities.

Inspired by the success of the digital design schools, Shaqodoon Organization is committed to implementing a similar achievement in Kenya. Recognizing the importance of equipping underprivileged youth in Kenya's Northeastern region with digital skills, we aim to establish digital design schools to transform lives and empower young individuals. By offering specialized ICT training, entrepreneurship support, and life skills development, we strive to create opportunities for the youth to secure meaningful employment and make positive contributions to their communities.

The achievements of the Bits School demonstrates Shaqodoon Kenya’s dedication to making a significant impact on the lives of young people and their communities. Join us in our commitment to empowering youth through digital skills training and building a brighter future together.

More Details

Project Director: Mustafa Othman | Email

Location: Somaliland and Puntland

Start Date - End Date: 9/13/2012 to 10/15/2015

Donor(s): National Endowment for Democracy (NED)

Partner(s): National Endowment for Democracy (NED)