FOCUS is a transformative network committed to driving impactful change within the humanitarian and development sectors of Somalia, addressing the nation's ongoing challenges. The network consists of fourteen (14) established National/Local Non-Governmental Organizations (LNNGOs). It represents a locally driven agenda for change by fostering partnerships among communities, civil society, the public and private sectors, and academia. Furthermore, the network implements advocacy initiatives, promo... ...

FOCUS is a transformative network committed to driving impactful change within the humanitarian and development sectors of Somalia, addressing the nation's ongoing challenges. The network consists of fourteen (14) established National/Local Non-Governmental Organizations (LNNGOs). It represents a locally driven agenda for change by fostering partnerships among communities, civil society, the public and private sectors, and academia. Furthermore, the network implements advocacy initiatives, promotes climate justice, invests in the capacity strengthening of its members and other community-led groups, and develops sustainable projects aimed at alleviating the suffering of affected populations. Somalia’s humanitarian and development context is shaped by a complex array of challenges, making it one of the most crisis-affected countries globally. Decades of conflict, political instability, economic hardship, and climate-related shocks have created an environment where millions of people are in need of immediate assistance and long-term support. Ongoing conflict and political instability have resulted in widespread displacement and have disrupted access to essential services. Armed groups continue to impact the security of regions, limiting humanitarian access and affecting civilians' daily lives. Somalia faces chronic food insecurity, exacerbated by drought, desert locust infestations, and rising food prices. Many regions experience high levels of acute malnutrition, with a significant portion of the population at risk of starvation. Food shortages are especially severe in rural areas, where many communities rely on agriculture and pastoralism. Conflict, climate shocks, and livelihood loss have forced millions to flee their homes. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) often settle in overcrowded camps or urban areas where resources are scarce, and access to basic services is limited. Somalia’s health system remains fragile, with limited infrastructure, a shortage of trained healthcare providers, and high disease burdens. Access to clean water and sanitation (WASH) services is minimal, which increases risks of waterborne diseases, particularly in IDP camps. Access to education is limited due to displacement, poverty, and infrastructure challenges. Many children, particularly girls and displaced children, lack educational opportunities, impacting long-term development. High unemployment and limited livelihood opportunities contribute to poverty. Agriculture and livestock, Somalia's economic mainstays, are vulnerable to climate shocks, making economic stability a significant challenge. Political instability and fragmented governance structures hinder development and the implementation of policies. Weak institutions and limited governmental capacity make it difficult to provide essential services or enforce law and order. Somalia is highly susceptible to climate shocks, including recurrent droughts and occasional floods. Climate change exacerbates these issues, affecting food production, water resources, and overall resilience. Environmental degradation, such as deforestation and water scarcity, poses a growing concern. Climate justice initiatives focus on building resilience for communities who are disproportionately affected by climate change despite contributing little to its causes. Somalia has a large youth population with limited access to education, employment, and resources. Gender inequality is pervasive, with women and girls facing significant barriers in access to health, education, and economic opportunities. FOCUS embodies a transformative agenda to greatly contribute to shifting of power to local agencies in Somalia. Humanitarian responses deliver periodic short-term relief for the symptoms of crises rather than investments in communities’ self-reliance for the next occurrence of similar climate-related or human-made hazards.