Project Inception Meeting In Dhobley

Somali Family Services (SFS) Partnership with Somali Stability Fund (SSF) conducted the two-day kick-off meeting held on 9–10 Aug 2025 brought together 40 participants, representing a diverse cross-section of key stakeholders essential to strengthening local governance in Dhobley. Attendees included officials from the Dhobley District Administration and representatives from the Jubaland Ministry of Interior, who provided political backing and ensured alignment with the Decentralization Policy and Dispute Settlement Strategy. Traditional and religious leaders added cultural legitimacy, while civil society actors, private sector representatives, and humanitarian partners enriched discussions with community-level insights and practical experience. The inclusion of marginalized groups particularly women, youth, and minority clans was a notable strength, with many contributing meaningfully to discussions on participation, inclusion, and accountability. Although some participants were initially hesitant, inclusive facilitation and small group formats encouraged open dialogue, especially during the “Voices from the Community” session. Women highlighted persistent barriers to participation, while youth expressed interest in ongoing civic engagement. The presence of the private sector also underscored the importance of linking governance to local economic realities. The project “Expansion and Strengthening of Local Governance in Dhobley” officially commenced with a kick-off meeting held at the district headquarters in Dhobley. This activity was a crucial inception step designed to lay a strong foundation for successful project implementation by fostering stakeholder awareness, engagement, and ownership. It marked the first engagement under the 3-month implementation cycle aimed at improving local governance capacity, inclusion, and democratic structures in Dhobley.