Buuhoodle, a city in the Sool region of Somalia, recently hosted a significant event commemorating World Human Rights Day. Organized by the Ministry of Family and Human Rights of the SSC-Khatumo Administration, the event aimed to raise awareness about the rights of women, people with disabilities, and other marginalized groups within the community.
The event was inaugurated by Faysal Barre, the Minister of Women, Family, and Human Rights for the SSC-Khatumo Administration. In his opening remarks, Minister Barre emphasized the importance of ensuring that women and individuals with disabilities are fully integrated into the fabric of society, enjoying equal rights and opportunities.
“Today, we gather to celebrate World Human Rights Day, a day that serves as a reminder that human rights are not exclusive to any particular region, country, or group,” Barre stated. “Human rights are universal, and every living being, including animals, has inherent rights that must be respected and protected.”
The event featured a diverse range of speakers from the local community, each sharing their perspectives on the challenges faced by marginalized groups and the urgent need to address these issues. Discussions centered around the fundamental rights to education, healthcare, employment, and political participation, as well as the protection from discrimination based on gender, disability, or social status.
One participant, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared a powerful testimony, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the dignity and worth of every individual. “Human rights are not just about meeting basic needs like food and shelter,” they said. “It’s about ensuring that every person has the freedom to live their life with respect, without fear of persecution or discrimination.”
Minister Barre reiterated the SSC-Khatumo Administration’s commitment to upholding human rights and promoting inclusive policies. “While we acknowledge the challenges faced in the absence of a functional national government in Somalia, we remain dedicated to working towards a future where every individual’s rights are protected and respected,” he stated.
The event served as a crucial platform for raising awareness, fostering dialogue, and inspiring action to address the human rights issues faced by vulnerable communities in the region. Attendees left with a renewed sense of hope and determination to continue advocating for equal rights and dignity for all.
As the world commemorates Human Rights Day, events like this remind us that the journey towards a more just and equitable society is a collective responsibility, one that requires unwavering commitment and solidarity across all sectors of society.
