Ahmed’s journey of advocacy for disability rights in Somalia

Ahmed has always believed in the strength of his own will. Visually impaired from birth, he grew up in Dhusamareeb, Somalia, where opportunities for people like him were very rare. But Ahmed’s conviction that he could make a difference in his life — and the lives of others — gave him the resilience to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

“I knew that education was my way forward. If I could succeed, I could inspire others like me to do the same,” says Ahmed Mohamed Jamal, 28, who is now a disability rights advocate.

When Ahmed reached school age in the early 2000s, there was no functioning government in Somalia, let alone any schools that could cater well to his disability. Somalia was still trying to rise out of the ashes of the deadly civil war that started in 1991.

“Despite the challenges, I managed to complete my early education. When people hear my story, they start to see disabilities differently,” Ahmed says. “It’s not about pity; it’s about understanding that everyone deserves the chance to learn, work, and contribute to society.”

Ahmed’s personal struggles ignited his passion for advocacy. He knew firsthand the isolation that comes from being treated as an outsider. This fueled his desire to fight not just for himself but for all persons with disabilities in Somalia.

He began small by organizing talks at local schools, where he shared his journey to challenge the misconceptions surrounding disability. He spoke about the value that persons with disabilities bring to society, emphasizing that they are not burdens but capable individuals with unique talents. Slowly but surely, Ahmed’s message started resonating.

Empowered to influence

A turning point in Ahmed’s advocacy work came when he became involved with the Capacity Development and Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Project, funded by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSRelief) and implemented by UNDP Somalia and the National Disability Agency. This project is providing targeted support for persons with disabilities, including coordinating advocacy for disabled people’s rights; distributing much-needed assistive equipment; developing and implementing sign language curriculums; and contributing to shaping inclusive policies that reduce stigma and discrimination against the disabled.

Through the project, Ahmed received training on national and international disability rights, including the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), and the practical steps that can be taken to defend and promote these rights. He was connected to a supportive network of advocates and equipped with skills to engage educators, parents, and local leaders.

One of his most impactful initiatives under the project was leading joint awareness sessions at Ablaal and Gurmad Schools in Dhusamareeb. Over 80 students and 350 community members participated, learning about rights of children with disabilities and the importance of inclusive education.

“These sessions were about more than just information,” Ahmed recalls. “They were about changing mindsets and showing people that children with disabilities have the same potential as anyone else.”

A memorable encounter

One of Ahmed’s most memorable encounters came after an awareness session at Ablaal Integrated School. A young girl named Habiba approached him with tears in her eyes. She shared her concern for her older brother, who had been kept at home due to his disability. Her parents, like many others in the community, believed that sending him to school would expose him to ridicule and discrimination

Ahmed spoke with Habiba’s parents, encouraging them to enroll their son at Ablaal School, where specialized support for children with disabilities was available. Inspired by Ahmed’s words, the family made the decision to give their son a chance at education.

“This was a breakthrough,” Ahmed says. “It showed me that change is possible, one family at a time.”

A vision for the future

Ahmed’s journey has not only transformed his own life but has also sparked a broader movement for inclusion in Dhusamareeb and beyond. His advocacy, supported by the local communities, continues to inspire families, educators, and community leaders to embrace inclusive practices.

He dreams of a Somalia where every person — regardless of ability — has the opportunity to thrive. “I want to see a future where children with disabilities are in every classroom, learning alongside their peers. Where they are not hidden away but celebrated for who they are,” Ahmed shares.

With the support of KSRelief-funded initiative, Ahmed is working toward this vision — organizing workshops, collaborating with local organizations, and engaging government officials to push for policies that protect the rights of persons with disabilities. His work is creating ripples of change, challenging stereotypes, and opening doors for future generations.

About the project:

The Capacity Development and Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Project, funded by KSrelief and implemented by UNDP in partnership with national and state-level institutions, is transforming the lives of Persons with Disabilities in Somalia. The project focuses on advocacy to shift societal attitudes, raise awareness about disability rights, and strengthen service delivery to meet the unique needs of PWDs. Notable achievements include the development of Somali sign language TOT curriculum, sign language trainings, training and awareness campaigns on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), and the renovation of sign language training halls as well as GBV one-stop centers to improve accessibility for PWDs.

Looking ahead, the project plans to further empower PWDs by providing assistive devices such as wheelchairs, crutches, and canes, and introducing a mobility-enhancing minivan to ease transportation challenges. Additionally, a toll-free hotline has been established to provide psychosocial counseling and referral services, ensuring individuals can access vital support when needed. By combining advocacy, infrastructure improvements, and direct assistance, the initiative is paving the way for a more inclusive Somalia where every person can live with dignity and opportunity.

Read more: www.undp.org/somalia