Good governance is a prerequisite for successful socio-economic development. In Somalia, poor governance has led to weak economic growth, corruption, political instability, and ineffective rule of law. HAPEN contributes to promoting principles of good governance including conduct of fair elections, responsiveness, efficiency and effectiveness, openness and transparency, rule of law, access to justice, ethical conduct, competence and capacity, and innovation.
HAPEN trains young volunteers in conflict-affected regions to empower them to build lasting peace in their communities. The organisation works with local community structures including elders, women, and youth networks — using sport, arts, theatre, advocacy, and dialogue to stimulate youth leadership and peace building. Skills built include acceptance, cooperation, inclusion, respect, responsibility, and trust, which are promoted across conflict divides to create sustainable relationships and partnerships.
HAPEN participates in DPC formation and ensures that women are meaningfully included and equipped to participate effectively. The organisation recognises the lack of strong formal justice mechanisms in Somalia, working with Nabad doons, Councils of Clan Elders, and hybrid traditional-formal mechanisms. HAPEN identifies cases requiring legal aid and facilitates smooth referral from councils of elders to courts, while promoting positive working relationships between traditional structures and state justice systems.
HAPEN supports the creation of federal political institutions aligned with the provisional constitution, while building capacities within regional institutions to provide improved oversight and legislative functions. This includes strengthening capacities of regional parliaments, political parties, and electoral frameworks. HAPEN also sensitises key population groups — especially women and youth — on the election process, their rights, civic duties, and their role in maintaining peace during and after the election period.
Partner with HAPEN to support sustainable development, peace-building and resilience across Somalia.
