In the sprawling IDP settlements of southwest Somalia, displaced individuals faced a myriad of protection challenges – from unlawful restrictions on movement to forced displacement and psychological abuse. These vulnerabilities disproportionately impacted women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, particularly survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). Recognizing the urgent need for action, GREDO in collaboration with Save the Children International (SCI) under the GAASHAAN project stepped in to provide a lifeline of support.
At the heart of this initiative was the establishment of a dedicated protection hotline, 9997, funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) through the HARBS program. This innovative tool was designed to give survivors a safe, anonymous, and accessible means to seek help, empowered by the GAASHAAN Consortium’s survivor-centric approach.
Aamina*, a 28-year-old mother of three, had endured a living nightmare – years of relentless domestic abuse at the hands of her spouse. Trapped by the weight of societal stigma and the fear of repercussions, her cries for help had been muffled, leaving her to suffer in silence.
That all changed one fateful day when Aamina* learned about the GAASHAAN Consortium’s protection hotline 9997 during a community awareness campaign organized by GREDO. Mustering every ounce of her courage, Aamina* reached out, hoping that this would be the lifeline she so desperately needed.
On the other end of the line, GREDO’s empathetic case workers offered a compassionate ear, psychological support, and practical guidance on the next steps. Leveraging their specialized training, they ensured that each caller received personalized attention, fostering an environment of trust and encouraging more survivors to come forward.
Through the hotline, Aamina* was connected to GREDO’s safe house and received comprehensive legal counseling and aid, ultimately enabling her to obtain a restraining order against her abuser. Today, Aamina* and her children live in a secure environment, free from the shadow of violence that had once consumed their lives. Inspired by the support she received, Aamina* has become a passionate advocate for the protection hotline, sharing her story and encouraging other survivors to find the courage to seek help.
The impact of this hotline was profound. As awareness grew through community outreach efforts, the number of reported GBV and child protection (CP) cases surged, reflecting the increased trust in the system and the willingness of survivors to seek help. This upward trend enabled more individuals to access comprehensive case management services, including medical care and psychosocial support, transforming lives and shattering the cycle of violence.
The hotline also served as a vital feedback mechanism, allowing community members like Suleiman, a local leader, to voice their concerns and suggestions. This invaluable input helped the GAASHAAN Consortium’s protection team identify areas where additional training and resources were needed, empowering them to tailor their interventions to the evolving needs of the community.
As the GAASHAAN Consortium’s hotline initiative continues to evolve, the commitment to supporting survivors and preventing GBV remains steadfast. With the FCDO’s continued funding and the unwavering dedication of the consortium partners, more stories of resilience and transformation are emerging, paving the way for a safer and more just society in southwest Somalia.
- Real name hidden to protect identity.