Media Advisory: New Somaliland Country Representative available for interview in London

[Jacaylbaro]

Does Somaliland have a secret recipe for 'home-grown' stability in an otherwise turbulent neighbourhood?

 

"When I travel, people often ask me 'so what is Somaliland's secret?' I tell them that it is something they too will have to learn for themselves," says Suad Abdi.

 

Suad Abdi grew up in South Somalia and has recently been appointed as Progressio's new Country Representative for Somaliland (in North West Somalia). Suad Abdi, an inspirational activist on women's issues in Somaliland, is in the UK to speak about why growing up in a fragile region doesn't make you a fragile person and to share her experiences of home-grown nation building and peace in a region better known for conflict, poverty, piracy and most recently for devastating drought and famine.

 

Suad Abdi is in London and available for interview from 12 to 20 September. Suad Abdi is an expert on women's issues in Somaliland and is a founder member of NAGAAD (National Network of Women's Organisations), who are currently campaigning for women's political participation and acceptance in Somaliland. Suad Abdi is keen to talk about the following topics:

 

Why growing up in a fragile region doesn't make you a fragile person.

 

Why the women's movement has been an essential ingredient for successful 'home-grown' nation building in Somaliland.

 

In a society traditionally dominated by male elders, how are women and young people determining their future in Somaliland?

 

The hurdles, hindrances and opportunities encountered on the journey towards equality for women in the region thus far, such as; the challenges of clan loyalties in the voting process, womens' lack of access to funds for political campaigning and how to harness the potential of a majority female voting population.

 

How have peace and stability provided a buffer zone for Somalilanders in the face of the recent drought in the Horn of Africa?

 

Why are good relationships between local governments and grassroots activist groups key to getting aid money to the people who need it most?

 

 

For further information contact:

Esther Trewinnard +44 (0)7783 409045 / (0)20 7288 8620 or Tim Aldred +44 (0)20 7288 8625 / +44(0)7740 543047

[Jacaylbaro]