Enhanced Awareness of Hazards, Disaster Information and Early Warning Systems and DRR Capacity Building of Local Level Structures

Enhanced Awareness of Hazards, Disaster Information and Early Warning Systems and DRR Capacity Building of Local Level Structures

March 17, 2025Posted inClimate Change and Disaster Risk Management, Social Research
World Food Programme (WFP) Somalia Country Office together with Somali Disaster Management Agency (SODMA) and Ministries of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management (MOHADM) is currently implementing a project, titled “Strengthening and linking federal and state early warning systems” with financial support from the World Bank. [showhide] The project objective is to strengthen community-oriented disaster early warning systems and capacities in Hirshabelle and Southwest States. Through this project, the proposed interventions will pilot disaster early warning systems and approaches, while linking them to national disaster risk management, with the goal of improving national and community disaster preparedness and response capacities. This project is strongly aligned to the Somalia Crisis Recovery Project (SCRP’s) development objectives which is to support the recovery of livelihoods and infrastructure in flood and drought affected areas and strengthen capacity for disaster preparedness nationwide. Taken with the other components of the SCRP, this project will support an integrated flood-drought response and preparedness regime to mitigate against climatic shocks. INSIGHTS is supporting efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and response in Hirshabelle and Southwest States, building resilience to floods and droughts. Key objectives include raising community awareness, strengthening Village Disaster Management Committees (VDMCs), and establishing early warning systems (EWS). The initiative also fosters linkages between community and national disaster management structures while documenting best practices and lessons learned. [/showhide]
Baseline Survey for Adaptive Agriculture and Rangeland Rehabilitation Project (A2R2)

Baseline Survey for Adaptive Agriculture and Rangeland Rehabilitation Project (A2R2)

March 17, 2025Posted inAgriculture and Market Systems, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, Social Research
The Adaptive Agriculture and Rangeland Rehabilitation Project (A2R2) in Somalia aims to enhance the climate resilience of poor rural households through sustainable natural resource management. This involves improving water resources and rangeland management, promoting eco-agriculture and climate-proof livelihoods, rehabilitating degraded forests and habitats, and strengthening governance systems for land degradation and biodiversity conservation. [showhide] The project also seeks to enhance food and nutrition security, income generation, and adaptive capacities of vulnerable smallholder households.INSIGHTS conducting baseline survey is to establish pre-project conditions against which changes among the target population can be measured. The survey will help to set baseline and track project outcomes and impacts. It will collect both quantitative and qualitative data to measure key indicators such as income, food and nutrition security, biodiversity conservation, and adaptive capacities. [/showhide]
End-Line Evaluation Survey for Kenya Rangelands Ecosystem Services Productivity Programme (RANGER)

End-Line Evaluation Survey for Kenya Rangelands Ecosystem Services Productivity Programme (RANGER)

February 7, 2025Posted inAgriculture and Market Systems, Capacity Building and Business Development Support, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, Human Capital and Public Sector Reforms, Social Research
Programme (RANGER) Northern Rangelands Trust and funded by European Union INSIGHTS conducted an endline evaluation of the Kenya Rangelands Ecosystem Services Productivity (Ranger) program, evaluation commissioned by NRT and funded by the European Union, which addresses challenges in the Amaya Triangle region of Kenya, covering Laikipia, Baringo, Samburu, and Isiolo counties. [showhide] The program aimed to build resilience, sustainability, and peace by supporting community conservancies, promoting climate-resilient livelihoods, and improving governance. A consortium of ten partners, including World Agroforestry (ICRAF), Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), and Entrepreneurs for Impact (E4I), led these efforts. Despite successes in improving local communities and conserving natural resources, the region continues to face challenges, necessitating the endline evaluation. The evaluation assessed the program's performance using the OECD DAC evaluation criteria: relevance, coherence, effectiveness, efficiency, impact, and sustainability. It aimed to determine the impact of key program indicators, evaluate the program's alignment with conservancy needs, and review its implementation efficiency. Additionally, the evaluation included a human rights audit, identified areas for future learning, and provided strategic recommendations for stakeholders to improve the program's outcomes. The RangER program has worked to improve livelihoods, enhance ecosystem service productivity, support climate-smart natural resource management, and foster peace and security, all of which contribute to the resilience of local communities, ecosystems, and wildlife in the face of climate change. [/showhide]
Gender and Disability Barrier Assessment (GEDSI)

Gender and Disability Barrier Assessment (GEDSI)

February 7, 2025Posted inClimate Change and Disaster Risk Management, Human Capital and Public Sector Reforms, Social Research
INSIGHTS was commissioned by COOPI through the SomRep Program to conduct a comprehensive Gender and Disability Barrier Assessment (GEDSI) in the Dollow and El Afweyn districts of Somalia/Somaliland, using a Political, Economic, Social, Technological, and Legal Environment (PESTLE) approach. This assessment adopted a participatory and rights-based methodology, engaging women, girls, persons with disabilities, and relevant stakeholders. [showhide] The goal was to identify and analyze the barriers these groups face in accessing essential services and opportunities across sectors such as education, healthcare, employment, transportation, and social protection. Given the interconnections between gender and disability, the assessment emphasized the need to consider both dimensions to understand the specific challenges faced by women and men with disabilities. It also explored how gender norms and expectations impact the lives of people with disabilities, aiming to uncover the unique barriers they face and how these intersect with gender. The GEDSI assessment aimed to inform the development of more effective policies and programs that promote inclusion, equity, and accessibility for all individuals, regardless of gender or disability status. The findings led to actionable recommendations to overcome barriers, reduce vulnerabilities, and strengthen enablers. Ultimately, the assessment contributes to the achievement of SDGs, particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality), while identifying opportunities for policy reform and programmatic action to enhance inclusive development, equal opportunities, and social justice in Somalia/Somaliland. [/showhide]
Gender Analysis and Development of Gender Strategy

Gender Analysis and Development of Gender Strategy

February 7, 2025Posted inAgriculture and Market Systems, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, Human Capital and Public Sector Reforms, Social Research
INSIGHTS conducted a gender analysis and developed a Gender Strategy for the USAID-funded "Nabadoon Reconciliation Activity" (Nabadoon) in Somalia. The Nabadoon Reconciliation Activity, a five-year program, aims to foster community reconciliation and resilience in Somalia, particularly in the districts of Barawe, Afgooye, Jowhar, and Warsheikh. The program is implemented by a consortium led by Catholic Relief Services (CRS), with Center for Peace and Democracy (CPD) and Somali Solidarity for Welfare and Change (SSWC) as implementing partners. [showhide] Commissioned by CPD, the gender analysis aimed to support the integration of gender throughout the Nabadoon project cycle, addressing gender-based power dynamics, harmful masculine norms, and promoting the inclusion, participation, and empowerment of women, youth (18-29 years, both male and female), and persons with disabilities. The gender analysis filled knowledge gaps identified in the baseline assessment and informed the design and implementation of gender-responsive and transformative activities. It aimed to overcome district-specific participation constraints, such as meeting times, location distances, conflict sensitivity, and adherence to the "Do No Harm" strategy. Furthermore, the analysis sought to identify how Nabadoon activities were not causing unintended harm to the target groups while promoting their active participation in conflict resolution and peacebuilding. The gender analysis also assessed the integration of gender issues in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and natural resource management, providing recommendations for better integration of gender considerations to achieve more equitable outcomes. The second component of the analysis was to develop a Gender Strategy for the Nabadoon Activity. Effective mainstreaming of gender equality and social inclusion is crucial for natural resource management and peacebuilding initiatives in Somalia, and the Gender Strategy is an essential cross-cutting component of the Nabadoon Project. The strategy provides a framework to guide the project and its consortium partners, ensuring gender considerations are integrated into all aspects of the program. The primary target audience for the strategy includes the consortium partners and Nabadoon communities/participants who will be responsible for its implementation. Secondary audiences include organizations and individuals working to empower marginalized groups, particularly women, in Somalia. The strategy aims to promote inclusive participation, address gender inequalities, and foster a more equitable and sustainable impact for all involved. [/showhide]
Final evaluation of SOM – Economic and Social Empowerment of Youth in Somalia (EASE-Y in Somalia).

Final evaluation of SOM – Economic and Social Empowerment of Youth in Somalia (EASE-Y in Somalia).

February 7, 2025Posted inAgriculture and Market Systems, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, Human Capital and Public Sector Reforms, Social Research
The EASE-Y project, funded by the Germany Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by Save the Children International (SCI), aimed to empower youth in Somalia through a multi-faceted approach. Targeting 5,000 direct beneficiaries, with equal representation of males and females, the project ensured gender parity and inclusivity. Additionally, it indirectly benefited approximately 30,000 individuals, extending its impact to the broader community. [showhide] Through a comprehensive framework of life skills training, vocational skills development, entrepreneurship support, and youth leadership initiatives, the EASE-Y project sought to equip young people with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the workforce while fostering social and political inclusion. INSIGHTS conducted the endline evaluation of the EASE-Y project, which focused on its implementation in Mogadishu, Baidoa, and Garowe. The evaluation provided a comprehensive assessment of the project's relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, impact, sustainability, coherence, and inclusiveness, aiming to determine the extent to which the project achieved its objectives and delivered meaningful outcomes for its target population. Specific objectives included evaluating the project's performance against baseline data, collecting qualitative and quantitative data on program impact—particularly in livelihoods and child protection—assessing the quality and accountability of the intervention, documenting both intended and unintended outcomes, and recommending strategic improvements. The evaluation also provided valuable insights to guide future decision-making, resource allocation, and scaling-up of similar initiatives. The findings highlighted the project's success in empowering youth and contributing to community development, while also identifying areas for improvement to enhance impact and sustainability in future projects. [/showhide]
Mapping and Assessing Gaps In Existing Formal and Informal Early Warning Systems

Mapping and Assessing Gaps In Existing Formal and Informal Early Warning Systems

February 7, 2025Posted inAgriculture and Market Systems, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, Social Research
INSIGHTS conducted a comprehensive mapping and assessment of existing formal and informal The primary objective of this exercise was to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in current early warning mechanisms to enhance their accessibility, effectiveness, and inclusivity. The study focused on understanding how weather and climate information services (WCIS) are utilized and identifying opportunities to improve their responsiveness to climatic shocks such as droughts, floods, and other extreme weather events. [showhide] A key aspect of the assessment was addressing the heightened vulnerability of marginalized groups, including Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), the elderly, socially marginalized populations, and those in hard-to-reach (H2R) areas. These groups face significant barriers in accessing vital resources, information, and support systems, which amplifies their risks during climatic shocks. Poor or limited access to WCIS further exacerbates their challenges, underscoring the need for inclusive and community-specific solutions. The mapping exercise provided actionable recommendations aimed at improving early warning systems to better prepare vulnerable communities for climatic shocks. These recommendations will guide the design of targeted interventions to enhance preparedness, resilience, and equitable access to early warning services, ensuring that no group is left behind in responding to climate-related risks.early warning systems in Bandarbeyla, Burao, and Beledweyne districts in Somalia. [/showhide]
Comprehensive Gender Assessment

Comprehensive Gender Assessment

February 7, 2025Posted inAgriculture and Market Systems, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, Human Capital and Public Sector Reforms, Social Research
INSIGHTS conducted a comprehensive Gender Analysis consultancy to support Action Against Hunger (ACF) Somalia in developing gender-transformative programming across its projects and sectors. The primary objective of the consultancy was to analyze gender dynamics and provide actionable recommendations to enhance the integration of gender-transformative approaches across ACF’s programs in health, nutrition, WASH, food security, and livelihoods. The analysis focused on five key domains: laws, policies, and institutional practices influencing decision-making; cultural norms and beliefs; gender roles, responsibilities, and time use; access to and control over assets and resources; and patterns of power and decision-making.In addition to addressing these domains, the study examined best practices for integrating gender considerations into relevant activities. [showhide] It identified current opportunities and proposed strategies and recommendations to address gaps, enabling ACF Somalia to adopt gender-transformative approaches and develop standalone gender and protection programs. The gender analysis was conducted in key regions of Somalia, including Banadir, Bay, Bakool, Lower Juba, Sool, and Nugaal, with final locations determined in consultation with ACF and the consultant. The findings and recommendations are expected to guide ACF Somalia in enhancing program effectiveness and sustainability while addressing gender inequalities and fostering inclusive development. [/showhide]
Baseline Assessment of IFAD’s Response Initiative for Somalia Emergencies (RISE Project)[Nov 2023 – Jan 2024]

Baseline Assessment of IFAD’s Response Initiative for Somalia Emergencies (RISE Project)[Nov 2023 – Jan 2024]

February 7, 2025Posted inAgriculture and Market Systems, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, Social Research
The project goal is to minimize the impacts of the Ukraine war on the livelihoods, resilience and food security of IFAD’s target group. As well the project development objective is to maintain and improve climate-smart agricultural productive capacity, post-harvest, and resilient water infrastructure access for small-scale producers affected by the Ukraine crisis by contributing to conducive agro-ecological and market conditions, protecting productive livelihoods of beneficiaries [showhide] and tapping new market opportunities to reduce small-scale producers' vulnerability, enhance their resilience to the shocks from the Ukraine crisis. INSIGHTS conducted a baseline survey in all the target districts in Somalia. [/showhide]
Business Development Services (BDS), mapping and profiling of individuals and private sector businesses engaged in fish retailing, and scoping exercises for fish retailer technology suppliers/providers /fabricators in Mogadishu and Kismayo

Business Development Services (BDS), mapping and profiling of individuals and private sector businesses engaged in fish retailing, and scoping exercises for fish retailer technology suppliers/providers /fabricators in Mogadishu and Kismayo

February 7, 2025Posted inCapacity Building and Business Development Support, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, Social Research
Inclusive Resilience in Somalia (IRiS) is a five-year project (2022–2027) funded by USAID and the UK's FCDO, aimed at accelerating economic development for marginalized groups in Somalia. The project enhances resilience through rural and urban livelihood diversification and inclusive economic market systems. IRiS focuses on the agriculture, livestock, and fisheries sectors, addressing key shocks like climate variability, conflict, and economic instability. The project targets integration of the urban poor and IDPs into urban economies, promotion of private sector investments, policy and regulatory strengthening, and expanding financial services for marginalized populations. [showhide] INSIGHTS was tasked with mapping and profiling individuals and businesses engaged in fish retailing and the fabrication/sales of fish retail facilities in Mogadishu and Kismayo. INSIGHTS supported collecting comprehensive data on these businesses, facilitating training for women and youth on record keeping and business management, and linking these market actors with financial institutions and technology providers to support the establishment of 400 standard fish retail outlets. [/showhide]