WVS’s child well-being priorities are closely aligned with Pillar 3: Social Development of the Somalia National Transformation Plan (NTP) and contribute directly to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Efforts to improve child nutrition and reduce wasting and stunting advance SDG 2: Zero Hunger and respond to the NTP priority of improving access to and quality of nutrition and food security services. Expanding equitable, quality maternal and child healthcare supports SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, addressing the NTP’s goal of strengthening accessible healthcare systems. Finally, strengthening child protection systems and family support contributes to SDG 5: Gender Equality and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, reinforcing the NTP commitment to protect children and promote social cohesion.

Somalia remains one of the most protracted and complex humanitarian contexts globally, with over three decades of armed conflict, political fragility, and recurrent climate shocks degrading livelihoods and resilience. Cycles of insecurity, drought, and flooding—now intensified by climate change—continue to devastate communities, with children disproportionately affected (FSNAU & FEWS NET, 2025; OCHA, 2025). As of early 2025, internal displacement has surged to an estimated 3.9 million people, driven by conflict, food insecurity, and environmental disasters (IOM, 2025), placing immense strain on essential services and deepening urban fragility.

Kevin Mackey- World Vision Somalia National Director on the release of the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC)

International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026 calls for “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.” (United Nations). In Sudan, South Sudan and Somalia, these words resonate in contexts where drought and conflict collide - driving displacement, hunger, and protection risks while stretching already fragile services for women and girls. As the Inter-Agency Working Group (IAWG), we issue this joint call to recognise and respond to the compounded realities facing women and girls across these crises.

At 13, Adama left school to support his family, trading education for long days in the fields. His story reveals the harsh reality children face when survival comes before learning.

As the world commemorates International Women’s Day, Brenda Musamba’s story stands as a clear example of how long-term investment in a girl can transform a life and a community. Today, Brenda works as a Community Development Worker with World Vision Zambia.

In Kuac South village in Warrap State, South Sudan, providing for a family of 13 once felt impossible for 45-year-old Joseph Ayok Ayok. But one Sunday in March 2024, during a church service, he heard about the Empowered Worldview program — a moment that would begin to change his life.

World Vision is complementing donor support through GIK