The Duchess of Edinburgh completed a two-day visit to Somalia, traveling to Mogadishu from 23 to 24 February to advance her long-standing work on women’s rights and conflict recovery.
In a private meeting at Villa Somalia, she was received by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, where the two discussed the critical role of women in peacebuilding, community resilience and accountability for sexual and gender-based violence.
The Duchess praised Somalia’s National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security.
During his visit, he met with survivors of conflict-related sexual violence at Uganda House and heard first-hand accounts of the atrocities perpetrated by Al Shabaab.
The royal also visited a village in Lower Shabelle and spoke to the wives of Somali soldiers about the daily risks they face while their husbands work to ensure stability in the region.
Local organizations, including the Ifrah Foundation, the ALIGHT Somali Women’s Leadership Initiative, and the Somali Women’s Study Center, shared the challenges of operating amid ongoing conflict, drought, and limited resources.
At a hospital in Mogadishu, the Duchess observed the impact of a UK-funded sexual and reproductive health program currently running in 39 facilities and saw first-hand how support is provided to survivors on the ground.
The visit came ahead of International Women’s Day and reinforced the Duchess’ dedication to championing the leadership and protection of women.
