Striving for a Sustainable Common Future
Empowering Somali communities through peace, democracy, and sustainable development.
Who We Are
Fostering Peace, Democracy, and Development Since 2003
Since 2003, Somali Family Services (SFS) has been a beacon of hope for Somali communities worldwide. With a mission to foster peace, inclusivity, and sustainable development, we support local and international initiatives in governance, education, and civil society building.
Together, we’re creating opportunities for youth, women, and marginalized groups to thrive.
Somali Family Services
What We Do
Creating Lasting Change Through Action
Democracy and Governance
We strengthen democratic institutions by fostering accountability, transparency, and civic participation. Through training programs, public forums, and advocacy efforts, we empower citizens and civil society to engage with their government and drive positive change.
Education and Skill Development
Education is at the heart of everything we do. From managing Somalia’s first public library to providing vocational training, we ensure that youth, women, and displaced populations have access to the tools they need to succeed.
Media for Peacebuilding
Our Radio Sahan platform amplifies the voices of marginalized groups, promotes human rights, and fosters dialogue between communities and government officials to address pressing issues and build trust.
Health and Livelihoods
We integrate healthcare awareness, hygiene campaigns, and livelihood programs to support vulnerable communities in achieving long-term resilience and self-reliance.
Empowering Marginalized Groups
We uplift youth, women, and displaced populations by breaking down systemic barriers and creating safe spaces for dialogue, leadership development, and skill-building.
35,000+
Lives Impacted
20+
Years of Service
100+
Training Programs Delivered
Nationwide Reach
Operational across Somalia with a focus in Puntland
Key Features of SFS
Regional and International Collaboration
Operating from offices in the U.S., Puntland, and Kenya, SFS leverages a broad network of local and international partners to implement impactful programs.
Access to Hard-to-Reach Areas
With a geographical focus in Puntland and a strong local presence, SFS has the capacity to implement initiatives even in the most challenging and remote regions of Somalia.
Strong Focus on Sustainability
SFS emphasizes building long-term, sustainable solutions that empower communities to become self-reliant, reducing dependency on external aid.
Inclusive and Diverse Approach
SFS actively works with Somalis from all clans, backgrounds, and genders, ensuring that no group is left behind in the journey toward progress.
Innovative education programs for a brighter tomorrow.
Advancing Education and Empowerment
Education is at the heart of Somali Family Services (SFS). We believe that quality education is the foundation for personal growth and societal progress. Through our ICT-integrated education initiatives, teacher training programs, and curriculum development projects, we equip educators with modern tools and techniques to improve learning outcomes. Our efforts also extend to marginalized groups, offering them vocational training and skill-building opportunities that open doors to meaningful employment. By fostering a culture of lifelong learning, SFS empowers individuals to drive positive change in their communities and contribute to Somalia’s sustainable development.
Uniting Communities, Strengthening Governance
Building Peace and Strengthening Democracy
SFS is a leading force in promoting peace and democratic governance in Somalia. We work with local governments, civil society organizations, and community leaders to foster accountability, transparency, and participatory governance. Our peacebuilding programs bring together divided communities to foster dialogue, resolve conflicts, and build trust. By prioritizing inclusivity, we ensure that youth, women, and other marginalized groups have a seat at the table in shaping Somalia’s future. Together, we are laying the foundation for a peaceful, democratic society where every citizen has a voice and an opportunity to thrive.
Join Us in Building a Stronger Somalia
Whether you’re in Minnesota or Somalia, there are many ways to support our mission. Join our network of partners, volunteers, and supporters working towards a peaceful, democratic Somalia.
Our Reach
Where We Work
At Somali Family Services (SFS), our impact spans local, regional, and international communities, making us a cornerstone of development and empowerment efforts in Somalia and beyond. With headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota, a regional coordination office in Nairobi, Kenya, and a strong presence in Garowe, Puntland, we operate across the entire Somali region. Our programs have touched countless lives, from building the capacities of local governance institutions in Puntland to facilitating peace-building initiatives that unite diverse communities.
