Water, Sanitation, and Health (WASH): A Foundation for Dignity and Development

Access to clean water, proper sanitation, and basic hygiene is a fundamental human right. Yet, in many parts of Somalia, communities continue to struggle with unsafe water sources, inadequate sanitation facilities, and poor hygiene practices. These challenges not only affect daily life but also put millions at risk of preventable diseases. At Somali Relief and Development Society, we recognize that Water, Sanitation, and Health (WASH) are essential pillars for improving community well-being, reducing poverty, and building a healthier future

Health and Nutrition Programs: Caring for Families and Livelihoods

Good health and proper nutrition are at the heart of human dignity and community development. In Somalia, however, conflict, poverty, and recurrent droughts have left millions vulnerable to malnutrition, preventable diseases, and limited access to quality healthcare. Families often face the dual challenge of safeguarding their own health while also protecting the animals they rely on for food and income. At Somali Relief and Development Society, our Health and Nutrition Programs address both human and livestock needs, ensuring stronger communities and more resilient livelihoods.

Protection: Safeguarding Rights and Restoring Dignity

In times of conflict, displacement, and crisis, vulnerable people often face serious risks to their safety, dignity, and basic human rights. Children, women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities are especially at risk of exploitation, abuse, and neglect. In Somalia, decades of instability and recurring humanitarian emergencies have left millions in need of protection and support. At Somali Relief & Development Society, we place protection at the center of our work—ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity, respect, and care.

Agriculture, Food Security, and Livestock Development: Building Resilient Communities in Somalia

Agriculture and livestock are the backbone of Somalia’s economy and a vital source of food and income for millions of people. The majority of Somali families depend on farming and pastoralism for their daily survival. However, recurrent droughts, climate change, poor infrastructure, and limited access to modern techniques continue to threaten food security across the country. Strengthening agriculture, ensuring reliable food systems, and supporting livestock development are not only essential for economic growth but also for reducing poverty and improving community resilience.

SORDES

About Us

Somali Relief and Development Society (SORDES) is a non-political, not-for-profit, and non- religious Somalia NGO, was established in Bardera, Gedo region in June 2006 by a group of concerned Somali intellectuals to respond to increased suffering, starvation and death of the communities badly affected by the civil conflict and famine in Somalia through the establishmentof community-based rehabilitation and development projects.

The organization has mainly focusedon Health, Nutrition, Agriculture/livestock, education, Peace promotion, women empowerment, Improvements on environmental, making awareness against the dangerous diseases such as: HIV/AIDS, child right protection as well as responding emergencies.

SORDES Impact

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Benefitted from food assistance, food security and livelihoods (FSL) programmes

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Reached through water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) programming

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Benefitted from Emergency response to provide lifesaving preventive and curative nutrition services

Our Focused Areas

Water, Sanitation and Health (WASH)

Access to clean water, proper sanitation, and good hygiene is essential for healthy and resilient communities. SORDES works to provide safe water sources, improve sanitation facilities, and promote hygiene practices, helping to prevent disease and protect the well-being of families. Through these efforts, we empower communities to live healthier lives and create a safer environment for all.

Safe water, sanitation, and hygiene are the foundations of public health. SORDES ensures that communities have access to clean water, functional latrines, and hygiene education, reducing the risk of illness and strengthening overall community resilience. Our WASH programs help families build healthier and more sustainable living conditions.

Health and Nutrition Programs (for both human and livestock)

Good health and proper nutrition are essential for both people and the animals that sustain their livelihoods. SORDES works to improve access to healthcare services, nutrition education, and veterinary support, ensuring that families and their livestock remain healthy and productive. By providing medical care, vaccinations, and guidance on balanced diets, we help communities prevent disease, reduce malnutrition, and strengthen resilience against crises.

Human and livestock health are closely connected, as healthy animals support food security, income, and overall well-being. SORDES implements integrated programs that address both human and animal nutrition, promoting sustainable practices, improving livestock care, and supporting families in achieving better livelihoods. Through these efforts, communities gain the tools and knowledge they need to thrive despite environmental and economic challenges

Education for Progress

Access to quality education is essential for building strong, resilient, and empowered communities. SORDES works to provide learning opportunities for children, youth, and adults, ensuring that even the most vulnerable have the chance to grow and thrive. By supporting schools, training teachers, and supplying educational materials, we give children the tools they need to shape brighter futures.

Education is the foundation of development and stability. SORDES promotes inclusive and equitable learning, with a special focus on reaching girls and marginalized groups who often face barriers to schooling. Our programs help families and communities break the cycle of poverty, build skills for self-reliance, and create opportunities for generations to come.

Agriculture, Food Security and Livestock Development

Agriculture, food security, and livestock development are vital for creating resilient and thriving communities. By supporting farmers and pastoralists, we help ensure reliable food production, improved nutrition, and stronger livelihoods. These initiatives empower families to face environmental and economic challenges with confidence.

Strengthening agriculture and livestock systems directly improves both income and nutrition for vulnerable communities. Through sustainable farming practices and livestock care, families gain the tools they need to secure their food supply and maintain healthy herds, building a foundation for long-term stability.

Clean Water is Life, Hygiene is Dignity

Access to safe water and proper sanitation is more than a necessity—it’s a foundation for healthy communities. SORDES works to provide clean water, improve sanitation facilities, and promote hygiene practices to prevent disease and protect vulnerable families. By educating communities on handwashing, safe water use, and waste management, we help reduce illness and create safer, healthier environments. WASH challenges may be significant, but they are far from hopeless. With community-driven solutions, practical interventions, and sustained support, every household can gain access to water and sanitation that ensures health, dignity, and resilience.