About Us

Peace and Development Forum (PDF) is a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization dedicated to fostering peace, eradicating poverty, and promoting sustainable development in Somalia. Established in 2017, PDF has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of Somali communities. Our commitment to creating lasting change is driven by our core values of integrity, inclusivity, innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. The founders of PDF recognized that addressing the intertwined issues of conflict, poverty, and underdevelopment required a multifaceted and sustainable approach. Since its inception, PDF has been dedicated to fostering peace, eradicating poverty, and promoting sustainable development across the country.

Somalia has faced decades of conflict and instability, resulting in significant socio-economic challenges. The civil war, ongoing conflicts, and political instability have devastated the country’s infrastructure, displaced millions, and created widespread poverty. These conditions have hindered development and contributed to the fragility of the state. Recognizing these challenges, PDF was established to support the Somali people in rebuilding their lives and communities through targeted interventions that address the root causes of these issues.

Reducing extreme poverty in Somalia is a core pillar that defines our existence. Our poverty eradication programs target the ultra-poor families that are often neglected by the mainstream charities. We deploy comprehensive, time-bound, integrated and sequenced set of interventions that aim to enable the extreme and the ultra-poor families achieve key milestones towards sustainable livelihoods and socio-economic resilience, in order to progress along a pathway out of extreme poverty. We are a catalyst who challenge the structural causes of the injustice of poverty, and work with partners locally and globally to create opportunities for people living in poverty to realize their full potential. A core component of our delivery approach is the emphasis on evidence-based inclusive programming, coupled with a strong focus on continuous learning. The foundation of PDF is built on the belief that peace, development, and prosperity are interconnected. Sustainable development cannot be achieved without peace, and peace cannot be sustained without addressing poverty and underdevelopment. PDF’s approach is holistic, focusing on the following principles:

Peacebuilding Efforts

PDF’s peacebuilding initiatives are designed to address the root causes of conflict and promote reconciliation within Somali communities. We facilitate dialogue among different community groups, encourage collaborative decision-making, and support local peace committees. By empowering community leaders and promoting conflict resolution skills, PDF aims to build a foundation of trust and cooperation that is essential for lasting peace.

Poverty Eradication Programs

Understanding that poverty is a major barrier to peace and development, PDF implements comprehensive poverty eradication programs. These initiatives focus on improving livelihoods through vocational training, microfinance opportunities, and agricultural support. Additionally, we prioritize education and healthcare access, ensuring that individuals and families have the resources they need to break the cycle of poverty and achieve economic stability.

Sustainable Development Initiatives

PDF is committed to promoting sustainable development by supporting projects that enhance environmental conservation, infrastructure development, and community resilience. Our efforts include reforestation programs, clean energy projects, and the construction of vital infrastructure such as schools and healthcare facilities. By integrating sustainability into our development approach, we aim to create a balanced and healthy environment for future generations.

Collaboration and Partnerships

The success of PDF’s initiatives is rooted in our collaborative approach. We work closely with local communities, government entities, international organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure that our programs are effective and inclusive. By leveraging the strengths and resources of our partners, we are able to maximize our impact and drive positive change across Somalia. Our partnerships are built on mutual respect and a shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous future.

Our Core Values

Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of honesty and ethical behavior.
Inclusivity: Ensuring all voices are heard and respected in our initiatives.
Innovation: Continuously seeking new and effective ways to achieve our goals.
Collaboration: Working together with diverse stakeholders for greater impact.
Sustainability: Promoting long-term solutions for lasting change.

Key Focus Areas

Peacebuilding

PDF facilitates dialogue and reconciliation efforts to resolve conflicts and build harmonious communities. Our peacebuilding initiatives empower community leaders and promote conflict resolution skills, creating a foundation of trust and cooperation essential for lasting peace.

Poverty Eradication

We implement programs aimed at improving livelihoods, access to education, and economic opportunities. Our initiatives include vocational training, microfinance opportunities, and agricultural support, helping individuals and families break the cycle of poverty and achieve economic stability.

Sustainable Development

PDF supports projects that enhance environmental conservation, infrastructure development, and community resilience. Our efforts include reforestation programs, clean energy projects, and the construction of vital infrastructure such as schools and healthcare facilities.

Meet Our Team

Mohamed Sheikh Said Haji

Chairperson

Bashir Abdulkadir Mohamed

Executive Director

Burhan Warsame Hersi

Director of Programs

Hassan Ali Hassan

Director of Finance and Administration

Daud Sheikh Ibrahim