Shaqodoon is a local non-governmental organization (NGO) that was founded in 2011 with the goal of tackling youth employment challenges in Somalia and Somaliland. Our organization emerged from the EDC Somali livelihood project, funded by USAID, which aimed to enhance access to work, training, and self-employment opportunities for young individuals in Somaliland, Puntland, and South-Central Somalia. At Shaqodoon, we design, implement, and evaluate programs that cater to the specific needs of our communities.

Our services cover vocational and technical skill development, entrepreneurship and ecosystem development, employability skills and market linkages. We also tackle pressing issues such as violence against women, gender-based violence, and female genital mutilation. Our focus extends beyond employment services.

We are committed to promoting inclusivity, youth entrepreneurship, environmental protection, private sector business development, and technology for development. By employing participatory methods, we ensure that young individuals are actively engaged in the delivery of our services. Our vision is to create a society where youth and women take the forefront in fostering a safe and inclusive environment, enabling them to achieve self-reliance and sustainable progress.

Through our mission of empowering and enabling youth and women, we strive to generate positive, sustainable impact within their communities by providing safe, inclusive, and innovative opportunities. Throughout our history, we have achieved several milestones, including the rehabilitation and operation of youth centers, the establishment of a new chapter in Kenya, expansion of business information services, and the introduction of pillars focusing on gender and social inclusion, as well as environmental and climate action. Our dedication has been recognized through various awards and certificates, highlighting our outstanding contribution to the community in fields such as business development, media, education, and social affairs.

At Shaqodoon, we are determined to continue our impactful work, utilizing technology, fostering skill development, and empowering individuals to drive sustainable progress in their communities