In many Somali communities, open discussions about sexual and reproductive health (SRH) remain deeply taboo. As a result, young people, especially adolescent girls, often grow up without accurate information or safe spaces to seek guidance. This silence not only limits their choices but also increases their vulnerability to early marriage, unintended pregnancies, and gender-based violence.
Hussein, a 22-year-old youth from Kismayo, experienced these challenges firsthand. Growing up, he recalls how conversations around reproductive health were avoided, and accessing services was seen as shameful.
“Talking about SRH or even visiting a health facility for advice was uncomfortable,” he shared. “Many of us simply didn’t know where to start.”
This began to change when Hussein participated in a comprehensive Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH) training organized by SOLO, with support from UNFPA and funding from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). The training created a safe, youth-friendly space where young men and women could openly learn and discuss key topics such as menstrual hygiene, family planning, HIV/STI prevention, and gender equality.
A defining feature of the programme was its peer-to-peer learning approach. Youth participants were encouraged to share experiences, ideas, and knowledge among themselves, fostering a comfortable environment for discussing sensitive topics. Learning from peers made it easier for participants to ask questions, challenge misconceptions, and build confidence in advocating for their health and rights.
“The training benefited me 100%,” Hussein said proudly. “It gave me crucial knowledge and confidence that I can now take back to my community. We thank SOLO for organizing such a wonderful programme. Our capacity will be used to educate others.”
The initiative also reached adolescent girls, many of whom had never previously attended sessions focused on their health and rights. Through interactive discussions, mentorship, and peer-led activities, they learned how to make informed decisions, access youth-friendly SRH services, and advocate for their well-being. These sessions not only increased awareness but also helped reduce stigma, allowing girls to speak more freely about menstrual health, bodily autonomy, and their right to access care.
Today, young people like Hussein are championing change in Kismayo. They are organizing peer education sessions, leading community dialogues, and supporting others in accessing SRH information and services. By breaking long-held taboos, they are helping ensure that more young people, especially girls, grow up empowered, informed, and healthy.
“Peer-to-peer learning has proven to be one of the most effective ways to engage young people on sexual and reproductive health,” said Abdihakim Abdullahi, UNFPA Adolescent and Youth Specialist. “When young people learn from each other in a safe and supportive environment, they are more open, confident, and willing to challenge the social barriers that limit access to SRH information and services.”
Hussein’s journey symbolizes a broader shift taking place in Kismayo, one where silence is being replaced with dialogue, and stigma with empowerment. Through continued investment in youth-friendly ASRH services, peer education, and community engagement, made possible through KOICA’s generous support, young people are gaining the knowledge and confidence they need to make informed decisions about their health, bodies, and futures.
