Bosaso, Puntland – October 2024
The Puntland Disability Organization Network (PDON), in partnership with Save the Children and under the NORAD Framework Program, successfully convened a one-day workshop on October 12, 2024, at Jubba Hotel, Bosaso. The event brought together 30 representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs), media outlets, and disability people’s organizations (DPOs) to strengthen collaborative efforts in advocating for child rights, with special emphasis on children with disabilities.
Workshop Objectives and Focus
The workshop aimed to:
- Foster partnerships between CSOs, media, and DPOs to raise awareness of child rights issues.
- Equip participants with effective advocacy tools and strategies.
- Develop a joint action plan to ensure sustained community support.
- Enhance the capacity of media and CSO representatives for Disability inclusion and accessible advocacy.
Engaging Sessions and Key Activities
Participants engaged in a range of interactive activities including presentations, group discussions, and panel sessions covering:
- Child Rights and Inclusion: Highlighting challenges faced by children with disabilities and the urgent need for inclusive advocacy.
- Collaboration and Partnership Building: Exploring the roles and opportunities for CSOs, media, and DPOs to work together effectively.
- Media’s Role in Advocacy: Sharing best practices on crafting impactful stories and ensuring accessible information reaches wider audiences.
- Advocacy Tools and Techniques: Practical training on messaging and communication strategies.
- Action Planning: Development of a detailed plan with commitments from all participants to sustain advocacy efforts.
Diverse Participation and Representation
The workshop included 30 participants, with balanced representation:
- Gender: 7 females and 12 males actively engaged.
- Disability Representation: 5 participants with mobility difficulties, 1 with visual impairment, 1 with upper body impairment, and 23 without disabilities.
Key Outcomes and Commitments
- Increased Awareness and Capacity: Participants gained new skills and insights to advocate effectively for child rights, particularly for children with disabilities.
- Commitment to Collaboration: Attendees pledged to maintain ongoing communication and partnerships.
- Action Plan: A collective roadmap was established, outlining objectives, responsibilities, and timelines to guide future advocacy campaigns.
Moving Forward
This workshop marked a crucial step in strengthening inclusive child rights advocacy in Bosaso. PDON, alongside Save the Children and NORAD, will continue supporting these collaborative efforts to ensure sustained, impactful advocacy that champions the rights and welfare of all children, especially those with disabilities.
