Gursum (Dawan Africa) – A community-based development initiative is underway in Gursum district of the Somali Regional State, aimed at reducing poverty and creating jobs through livestock and agricultural support.
The Somali Development Organization, working in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has delivered on Sunday a package of 323 goats and over 600 chickens to small enterprises in Dhagahle and Bambas towns. The distribution is part of a broader effort to increase production and improve local livelihoods.
According to Khadar Ahmed Aqib, Deputy Director of the Somali Development Organization, the program has moved into its second year after completing an initial pilot phase. “This project is now in its second year, and it has passed the test phase. Altogether this year, it will benefit around 4,500 people from four districts,” he said.
Ten established enterprises, which had previously received training in finance and management, were selected to manage the livestock and poultry. Project leaders say this approach is intended to strengthen community resilience and support long-term poverty reduction.
Project officials added that the Somali Development Project is placing its focus on livestock rearing, agricultural development, and crop processing, which they say are key sectors for creating youth employment and sustaining growth in the local economy.
