A new group of vulnerable Somali families has expressed heartfelt gratitude and joy after receiving income-generating projects from Qatar Charity, made possible by the generous support of donors in Qatar. Beneficiaries said these projects are a turning point in their lives, offering them stable employment and helping them improve their living conditions.

This initiative is part of Qatar Charity’s broader commitment to sustainable development and its continuous efforts to economically empower disadvantaged families. By enabling these families to establish their own sources of income, the projects help meet essential needs such as education, food, and healthcare. They also contribute to fostering social stability in local communities and reducing unemployment rates—particularly among women and youth, the most affected segments of Somali society.

High-Impact Interventions

The newly implemented batch included 33 small-scale projects: 5 shops for men’s clothing, 6 for women’s clothing, and 6 for grocery sales. In addition, 6 delivery vehicles, 8 three-wheeled auto-rickshaws ("rickshaws"), and 2 three-wheeled cargo motorcycles were distributed to families in need.

These interventions are especially critical in Somalia, where over 7.8 million people suffer the impacts of poverty and prolonged drought. More than 3 million individuals live in displacement camps and struggle daily to secure their basic needs. Youth unemployment has reached an alarming 75%, further exacerbating the country’s economic challenges.

Transforming Lives

These projects are expected to bring meaningful change to the lives of beneficiaries. Hawa Ali Adam, who received a women’s clothing shop, shared her excitement:
"I’m deeply happy to have received this store. It will help me manage my financial responsibilities and move beyond hardship. I’m truly grateful to Qatar Charity for this life-changing opportunity."

Maryam Abdallah Mohamed added:
"I used to juggle multiple jobs just to make ends meet for my family. Today, I’ve been given a chance to pursue my dreams. I sincerely thank the kind people of Qatar for this generous support that has transformed my life."

Abdirahman Mohamed Hussein, who previously supported his family by renting a tuk-tuk from someone else, expressed his appreciation for receiving his own rickshaw:
"This gift marks a new beginning for me. I now have a stable source of income and can better provide for my family."

During the project distribution ceremony, Mr. Abdifatah Adam Maalim, Director of Qatar Charity’s Somalia Office, stated:
"We believe that sustainable development projects are the most effective way to improve the lives of vulnerable families. They foster self-reliance and ultimately contribute to greater social and economic stability."

It is worth noting that Qatar Charity implemented 73 economic empowerment projects last year alone, benefiting 1,944 individuals.