We work to improve gender equality, health and access to education in Somalia. Who is HIRDA
HIRDA stands for Himilo Relief and Development Association. Himilo means ‘vision’ in Somali. Founded by members of the Somali Diaspora in the Netherlands, HIRDA works as a NGO together with other organisations to find lasting solutions to poverty and suffering in Somalia. Since its formation in 1998 HIRDA
has become one of the leading Diaspora organisations working on development and humanitarian crisis. Our work is based on the following vision:
A Horn of Africa where Somali groups live in peace, without hunger and with equal opportunities for all. In this light our mission is:
To improve the well being of Somali groups in the Horn of Africa through enhancing the self reliance and access to basic social services together with local and Diaspora communities. In order to realise this mission HIRDA focuses on six intervention areas:
Education
Gender
Health&Relief
Sport, Peace & Development
Diaspora engagement
Within these areas HIRDA established the following objectives:
Equal educational opportunities for boys and girls;
Promoting women empowerment in Somali society;
Mobilising relief services for refugees and internally displaced people;
Creating income-generating activities;
Promoting social engagements within local communities;
Mobilising Somali Diaspora to engage in the development of their home country. HIRDA is politically neutral, does not discriminate, and acts as a bridge between local communities and international donor organisations.
“We are making progress in Somalia, but it is an on-going process. We would like to thank every individual and organisation for its support and inspiration as we continue our development work in Somalia.” - HIRDA Board
