• Climate Change Impact: The founders recognized the urgent need to combat the negative effects of climate change in Somalia. They witnessed the increasing frequency of droughts, floods, and other climate-related disasters, which severely impacted communities’ livelihoods, water resources, and food security.
• Inadequate Access to WASH: The founders identified the critical need to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in Somalia. They witnessed the lack of clean water sources, proper sanitation facilities, and hygiene practices, leading to health issues and the spread of waterborne diseases.
• Food Insecurity: Somalia’s vulnerability to climate change and limited agricultural resources contributed to food insecurity. The founders were motivated to address this challenge by promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices, enhancing food systems, and ensuring sustainable access to nutritious food for communities.
• Governance and Peacebuilding: Recognizing the importance of good governance and peacebuilding for sustainable development, the founders aimed to foster transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance structures in Somalia. They understood that promoting peace, reconciliation, and conflict resolution at the community level were vital for social cohesion and long-term development.

With these motivations in mind, African Alliance for Relief and Development was established with a commitment to working closely with communities, government agencies, local partners, and international organizations to implement projects, build capacity, and drive positive change in the sectors of climate-resilient WASH, climate-resilient food systems, governance, and peacebuilding in the Somali context.