Community Conversation Session Held in Mataban, Hiran
The Somali Peace Line (SPL), in partnership with Save the Children in Somalia, successfully hosted a vital Community Conversation Session in Mataban, Hiran region. This session was conducted under the NORAD-funded project aimed at strengthening child rights and community safety.
The session was skillfully facilitated by trained Community Conversation (CC) facilitators in close collaboration with the NORAD Project Coordinator. Participants represented a broad spectrum of the community, including local leaders, parents, school structures, and key stakeholders, ensuring a comprehensive dialogue on critical child protection issues.
Objectives
The primary goals of the conversation session were to:
• Raise public awareness on fundamental child rights and protection principles.
• Strengthen community engagement in addressing harmful practices and promoting inclusive participation.
• Provide a constructive platform for dialogue on the specific challenges facing children and families in the area.
Key Discussion Points
The session focused on several key areas identified as crucial for child welfare in Mataban:
• Community concerns regarding child protection, access to education, and the influence of existing social norms.
• Clarifying the vital role of parents, schools, and local leaders in safeguarding children.
• Developing practical approaches to strengthen local reporting and referral mechanisms.
Key Outcomes
The session successfully achieved the following results:
• Participants achieved an improved understanding of child rights and complex protection issues.
• Strong collaboration was agreed upon between community structures and local schools.
• Firm commitments were secured from community leaders to actively support the creation of safe and inclusive environments for all children.
Next Steps
SPL and its partners will focus on the following actions to build upon the success of this session:
• Conduct follow-up sessions specifically targeting parents and caregivers.
• Actively strengthen local reporting and referral pathways.
• Maintain and deepen coordination with schools and community committees.
This initiative reinforces the commitment of SPL and Save the Children to empower communities and ensure a protective environment for every child in the Hiran region.
