DAKAR: In a unique approach to raise awareness and funds for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Somalia, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Somalia Country Office partnered with the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) that took place from January 12th to 15th, 2023, in Dakar, Senegal. The partnership aimed to bring attention to the devastating impact of the drought and climate crisis on the lives of Somali women and girls.
According to Niyi Ojuolape, the country representative of UNFPA Somalia, “the partnership with AFRIMA provided a unique opportunity to reach a large and diverse audience and raise awareness about the crisis in Somalia. The ongoing drought and climate crisis is having a devastating impact on the lives of women and girls in Somalia, and it is crucial that we continue to raise awareness and funds to support them.”
During the awards ceremony, Ifrah Ahmed presented the case for Somali women and girls on behalf of the UNFPA, highlighting the dire need for increased aid and support. Ahmed, a Somali-Irish activist and founder of the Ifrah Foundation (UNFPA partner organization), is also the subject of the Netflix movie “A Girl from Mogadishu” that recently gained international recognition for her fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and her advocacy for the rights of women and girls in Somalia.
In addition to Ahmed’s powerful words, UNFPA also had a stall at the event where volunteers shared details on how to donate. Visitors were encouraged to donate and/or spread the word on #HopeForSomalia. This creative approach to fundraising and awareness-raising helped to generate significant visibility for the cause and encouraged people to take action.
UNFPA’s participation in this event is significant, as, in partnership with the African Union, AFRIMA is one of the most high-profile events in Africa, attracting thousands of visitors from across the continent and the world. By partnering with this event, UNFPA was able to reach a large and diverse audience, raising awareness about the crisis in Somalia and the urgent need for action.
Mike Dada, President of AFRIMA, hoped that the partnership will inspire additional action and support for the people of Somalia. “AFRIMA is proud to have partnered with UNFPA on this critical initiative. We understand the importance of using our platform to raise awareness and funds for those affected by the crisis in Somalia. By working with organizations like UNFPA, we can make a real difference in the lives of millions who are suffering. We are honored to have played a role in bringing attention to this crisis,” Dada said.
It is expected that this partnership will have a significant impact on the ongoing crisis in Somalia. The awareness raised and funds generated will help to provide much-needed aid and support to those affected by the crisis. Additionally, the partnership also helped to demonstrate the importance of strategic partnerships in raising awareness and funds for critical issues.
Source: United Nations Population Fund