Somali women could become a powerful force for peace. Women have been victims of the ongoing conflict, but their compassion and healing efforts help the society to maintain a semblance of normal life.
Women continue to be the largest victims of violence, rape and other forms of injustice.
By promoting the role of women in peace building and national reconciliation, Iida is dedicated to ensuring the integration of Somali women into the country's reconciliation, reconstruction and rehabilitation process. Ms. Adam, who started her work at Iida by helping distribute food, blankets, medicine and potable water to many feeding centers, orphanages and hospitals in Mogadishu, has found that Iida is also a place from which to take a stand against the brutal crimes committed against women and children. The issue of personal security for the women and children we assist is the driving force behind all our work. Iida's main objectives are to educate women and to assess health, agriculture, food security, water and sanitation needs for women and children displaced by war, as well as to encourage skills training and employment opportunities, and to counsel victims of violence. As in many situations of crisis, women have stepped up their efforts to help the people cope and are widely recognized as the single largest force for hope and change.