On this International Women's Day, let us celebrate the achievements of women and girls around the world, particularly in Somalia. Despite the many challenges they face, I am filled with hope and passion as I witness firsthand the incredible strength and resilience of Somali women and girls who strive for their rights, progress, and change in their communities.

Somali women and girls have faced tremendous obstacles, such as prolonged drought, displacement, and the horrific prevalence of female genital mutilation (FGM). Nevertheless, they have demonstrated time and again their ability to overcome adversity and achieve great things. At UNFPA, we remain committed to ending FGM in Somalia and supporting women and girls affected by it. We firmly believe that every woman and girl has the right to bodily autonomy and the freedom to make choices about their bodies and lives.

We at UNFPA are dedicated to working with our partners to empower women and girls in Somalia to access the information and resources they need to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. Whether through our efforts to provide reproductive health services or to assist survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), we believe that every woman and girl has the right to live free from fear and violence.

Looking forward, I am filled with hope for what we can achieve together. I am inspired by the young Somali women and adolescent girls who are pushing boundaries and breaking down barriers, from enrolling in ICT courses to using social media to promote gender equality and women's empowerment.

UNFPA is committed to supporting the government and all stakeholders in establishing legal frameworks to combat GBV, including rape. We also recognize the devastating impact that climate change is having on women and girls in Somalia, and as UNFPA, we stand ready to deliver immediate humanitarian assistance to drought and conflict-affected areas to ensure that women and girls have their health and hygiene needs met, and that they are safe from GBV.

On this International Women's Day, let us celebrate the achievements of women and girls in Somalia, and recommit ourselves to the work of building a more just and equitable society for all. Let us renew our resolve to end all forms of violence against women, including intimate partner violence. Let us work together to provide survivors with the support they need to heal and recover, and to create a world where every woman can shine and access equal opportunities.

Together, we can create a brighter future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive. Let us celebrate the achievements of women and girls today, and let us continue to work towards a world where their contributions are fully recognized and celebrated. With renewed commitment to Somali women and girls, I remain hopeful for the future.

Niyi Ojuolape

Representative, UNFPA Somalia