Diakonia celebrates 25 years in Somalia

Diakonia celebrated 25 years in Somalia on 25 February 2019. Diakonia was the first international organisation present in Garowe and it was clear that we continue to be an important actor.

1994 saw the start of Diakonia’s work in the Puntland region in northern Somalia. Over the years our work has evolved from school construction to broad work for democracy and human rights.

Back in 1994 Diakonia was the first international organization on the ground. The fact that we are a key actor in the region was evident when it was time to celebrate our 25th anniversary. The President of Puntland and ministers, Swedish Ambassador to Somalia Andreas von Uexküll and many of our partner organizations were there. Being on the ground at an early stage has given us a great deal of trust capital, according to Muna Yusuf, Diakonia’s programme coordinator.
“We now want to continue to have good relationships with the government, civil society and rights holders. Only then can we get to where we want to be.”

Diakonia’s Secretary General Georg Andrén was also present.
“I feel overwhelmed by everything that Diakonia has contributed over the years. The President, ministers and our partners express great respect for our work. Our recipe for success has been, and continues to be responsiveness and perseverance.”