Why women’s empowerment matters
Women in Somalia — particularly widows, single mothers, or those from vulnerable and displaced families — face deep social, economic and cultural challenges. Poverty, instability, limited access to education and work, and lack of social support make it extremely difficult for many women to provide for themselves and their families.
Zamzam believes in the fundamental dignity, strength and potential of every woman. Empowering women means investing in entire families, ensuring children are cared for, and giving communities hope and stability.
Programmes for women’s empowerment
Through our Women’s Empowerment programme, Zamzam provides targeted support to help women overcome barriers and build sustainable livelihoods, stability and independence. Our main initiatives include:
Key programmes and support areas
- Vocational training and skills development
We provide training in trades and skills such as tailoring, handicrafts, small business management, agriculture, and other market-relevant professions. These skills allow women to earn a stable income and regain independence. - Small business grants and micro-loans
For women who wish to start small businesses — whether tailoring, trade, livestock rearing, or other enterprises — we offer small grants or interest-free micro-loans. This empowers them to create sustainable income streams and support their families. - Livelihood support and income generation
For women-headed households, widows and single mothers, we provide livelihood tools: seeds, livestock, basic supplies, or startup materials to help them become self-reliant. - Support for orphans and vulnerable children
Many empowered women are caring for orphaned or vulnerable children. We help ensure these children receive education, nutrition and shelter — offering integrated support through both our women-empowerment and orphan-care programmes. - Health, hygiene and wellness
Recognising that women’s wellbeing is more than income, we support access to healthcare, maternal services, clean water, hygiene supplies, and community health support — so women can thrive, not just survive. - Community support and advocacy
We foster community awareness about women’s rights, dignity, and inclusion. Through local initiatives and outreach, we work to reduce stigma, promote female education and support networks for women in vulnerable circumstances.
Watching a livelihood go up in flames
Farduus Ahmed watched her livelihood go up in flames in the northern city of Hargeisa.
The 49-year-old’s vegetable shop was destroyed by a fire which engulfed the city’s waheen market. The fire caused an estimated $2 billion worth of damage, with 17,000 market traders adversely affected, but today Farduus is back in business – thanks to our support.
“In the aftermath of the fire I was left without a source of income,” she says. “Zamzam provided me with financial assistance to rebuild my business, and offered training to help me improve my business skills. I now have a more stable source of income, and I feel empowered to meet my family’s needs.”
