Fatuma Ali Iman – A Beacon of Hope for Women in Southwest Somalia

In the bustling city of Baidoa, southwest Somalia, a remarkable leader is making waves in the fight for women’s rights and empowerment. Fatuma Ali Iman, the Chairperson of the Somali Girls Rights Development Organization (SGRDO), has emerged as a powerful voice for women in her community. Her journey has been shaped by her active participation in the African Women Leadership Network (AWLN), where she has attended two pivotal workshops organized in collaboration with UN Women.

A Transformative Experience

Fatuma's first meeting with AWLN took place on May 4-5, 2024, in Mogadishu. This gathering brought together women leaders from various sectors to discuss the AWLN chapter's vision for empowering women across Africa. For Fatuma, this was not just an event; it was a transformative experience that ignited her passion for advocating for women's rights in her region. The second AWLN workshop was conducted on 10-12 September 2024, “I have been elected as AWLN secretary for the Somali chapter and I am very happy with the responsibility given by the members and promised that I will work with them hand in hand,” she says, “I felt inspired by the discussions and the commitment of women from different backgrounds to uplift each other. It was a moment of realization that we are not alone in this fight. Together, we can make a difference.”

A Vision for Change

With renewed energy and a clearer vision, Fatuma returned to Baidoa determined to initiate change. She recognized the urgent need to raise awareness about women's rights and the challenges faced by women in her community. “Many women in the southwest are unaware of their rights and the opportunities available to them,” she explains, “We need to connect with them and address these challenges head-on.”

Under her leadership, SGRDO has been working tirelessly to promote women's rights and provide support systems for those in need. Fatuma is particularly focused on organizing extensive meetings and leadership training for women, aiming to empower them with the skills and knowledge necessary to become self-sufficient.

Empowering Women Through Agriculture

One of Fatuma's ambitious plans is to support women in agriculture and production. “Agriculture is a vital source of livelihood for many families in our region,” she says, “By equipping women with the necessary skills and resources, we can help them achieve self-sufficiency and improve their families' lives.”

Fatuma envisions workshops that will teach women sustainable farming techniques, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. “Our goal is to create a community of empowered women who can support themselves and contribute to the economy,” she adds.

A Call for Support

Fatuma's journey is not without its challenges, and she knows that to achieve her goals, collaboration and support are essential. She respectfully calls on AWLN and UN Women to assist in her plans. “With their support, we can turn our vision into reality and ensure that the AWLN chapter in the Southwest flourishes,” she emphasizes.

A Beacon of Hope

Fatuma Ali Iman’s story is one of resilience, determination, and hope. As she continues to champion the rights of women in Baidoa, she serves as a beacon of inspiration for many. Her commitment to empowering women and addressing the challenges they face is paving the way for a brighter future in southwest Somalia.

Through her leadership and the support of organizations like AWLN and UN Women, Fatuma is not just advocating for change; she is creating it. Her journey exemplifies the power of community, collaboration, and the unwavering spirit of women who dare to dream of a better tomorrow.