Duchess of Edinburgh Visits Somalia for Women’s Rights and Security Focus. MOGADISHU, Somalia — Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh embarked on a strategic two-day diplomatic mission to Somalia, spanning February 23 to 24.
The visit, timed to coincide with International Women’s Day, aimed to bolster the efforts of Somali organizations advocating for women’s rights and highlighted the resilience of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence.
The mission commenced with an executive briefing at Villa Somalia, where President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed The Duchess.
The bilateral discussions focused on integrating women into peacebuilding operations, enhancing community resilience, and establishing stringent accountability measures for gender — based violence.
The Duchess expressed her explicit support for the Federal Government of Somalia’s Women, Peace and Security National Action Plan, emphasizing the need for its continued implementation.
Accompanied by First Daughter Jihan Abdullahi Hassan at Uganda House within the presidential complex, The Duchess engaged with survivors of sexual violence caused by the Al — Shabaab militant network, reinforcing the importance of the UK-Somalia security and counter-terrorism framework.
The itinerary also included a visit to a village in the Lower Shabelle region, where The Duchess met with the wives of active — duty Somali soldiers.
The UK’s support to Somali organizations in this sector has reached nearly 130,000 women and girls during the 2024 and 2025 operational cycles.
During her visit to a central Mogadishu hospital, The Duchess reviewed a UK — funded sexual and reproductive health program, which is currently operational across 39 facilities in various regions significantly affected by insecurity and displacement.
The Duchess concluded her mission in Mogadishu on February 24, resuming her regional diplomatic tour.
The visit is expected to further strengthen the international community’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s efforts in women’s rights and security.
Source: sonna.
