Peace committees empower women, youth, and disabled in Kenya-Somalia Border

HIKMA Foundation has restructured 30 peace committees in Kenya and Somalia to enhance inclusivity and representation.

Traditionally, these committees were led primarily by older clan elders, who were often seen as disconnected from the diverse needs of the wider community. 

However, following the restructuring, 65% of committee members are now women and elders, 25% are youth, and 10% represent persons living with disabilities (PLWD).    

“This marks a new chapter in our peacebuilding efforts,” said Abdirizack Kesane, the Project Coordinator for HIKMA Foundation. 

“The inclusion of women, youth, and persons with disabilities ensures that voices from all segments of society are heard. This inclusivity strengthens our capacity to address the complex challenges of insecurity along the borders.”  

Participants from the region hailed the initiative as a crucial step toward peace and stability. 

The committees will be preventing countering violent extremism, development, and peacebuilding approaches, to tackle cross-border instability. 

Many expressed optimism about its potential to foster dialogue and cooperation between communities in the border area. 

The initiative is seen as a foundation for addressing underlying conflicts and building mutual trust. 

Fatuma Aden, a newly appointed committee member in Deg Elema, Kenya, stated that she views the initiative as a positive change in the region's progress, gender equity and an opportunity to set a precedent for conflict resolution in other areas.

“For years, decisions were made without consulting us. Now, as women, we can contribute directly to resolving conflicts in our communities.”  

Mr. Ahmed Yusuf, a youth representative in Dhobley, Somalia, emphasized the importance of including younger voices. 

“The youth are often caught in the middle of conflicts, yet we were never part of the solution. This opportunity allows us to be agents of change,” he said.  

The program was implemented with support from the Deris Wanaag Project, which aims to enhance peace and stability in the border regions. As a transnational initiative, it requires cross-border solutions. 

Led by Adam Smith International (ASI), the project focuses on strengthening local conflict resolution structures, supporting national responses, and building community resilience to combat the influence of violent extremist groups.  

With the support of local authorities in Garissa county and Jubaland State, the proposition aligns itself with regional developments to ensure its impact resonates locally in addition to the peacebuilding objectives.

“We are fostering cooperation between Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia, creating coordination mechanisms that ensure sustainable outcomes,” said Mr. Kesane in an interview.  

He explained that the peace committees are just one aspect of the project’s broader vision, emphasizing that close collaboration with local communities helps dismantle barriers that previously excluded marginalized groups.

The initiative also emphasizes replicating successful strategies in all implementing countries, ensuring consistent progress across the region.  

“For the first time, I feel represented,” said Hussein Ali, a person living with disability and a peace committee member from Deg Elema, Kenya. 

“This initiative proves that everyone has a role in peacebuilding, regardless of their physical abilities.”   

The restructuring of peace committees aims to enhance inclusivity and foster more effective governance structures in border regions.

“Everything we achieve in Kenya must also be mirrored in Somalia,” said Mr. Kesane. 

“Peace is not confined by borders; it is a shared responsibility,” said the HIKMA foundation official. 

He added, “our mission is to broaden decision-making processes to ensure the inclusion of historically marginalized groups.”

The activities of the peace committee are aimed at fostering inclusivity, creating pathways for communities to actively engage in peacebuilding and development while ensuring that their diverse needs and priorities are addressed.