In December 2024, Dalbile concluded the year with transformative programs that brought hope, skills, and innovation to Hirshabelle State. Recognizing the state’s unique challenges and potential, Dalbile implemented targeted initiatives aimed at strengthening governance structures and equipping youth with essential digital skills. These programs, held in Baladweyne, underscored Dalbile’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and empowering local communities.

Strengthening Governance: Capacity Building for Local Authorities

On December 24-26, 2024, Dalbile hosted a focused training session in Baladweyne for 20 participants from line ministries and local government. This session addressed critical skill gaps and aimed to improve governance frameworks within Hirshabelle State.

Key Highlights:

• Policy Development and Implementation: Participants gained insights into drafting and executing robust policies tailored to regional needs. Through case studies and group discussions, attendees explored ways to make policies more inclusive and effective.
• Effective Communication: The training emphasized inter-departmental collaboration, equipping staff with tools to improve coordination and information flow. Participants worked on practical exercises to refine their communication strategies.
• Leadership Skills: Interactive exercises highlighted ethical decision-making and the role of transparency in fostering public trust. Sessions focused on strategies for overcoming leadership challenges in resource-constrained environments.

The program left participants inspired and better prepared to tackle administrative challenges. One attendee noted, “This training provided practical tools to enhance our ability to deliver services and lead with integrity. It has given us a new perspective on governance and accountability.”

Empowering Youth Through Technology

Dalbile’s Future Ready Skills training, held on December 25-27, 2024, brought together 80 young participants in Baladweyne to explore the transformative power of technology. Designed to build essential digital skills, the program equipped youth with the tools needed to excel in an increasingly digital world.

Program Overview:

• Digital Basics: Participants learned the fundamental components of computers, from hardware and software to basic functionalities. They gained hands-on experience in assembling and troubleshooting basic hardware.
• Hands-On Training: The curriculum included practical exercises in using Microsoft Office tools, such as Word and Excel, for productivity and data management. Youth were also introduced to creative tools like PowerPoint for effective presentations.
• Internet Literacy: Attendees developed skills in online research and learned best practices for navigating the digital landscape safely and effectively. Sessions also touched on digital security, helping participants understand how to protect their data online.

Transformative Impact: The training was both transformative and forward- looking. By the end of the program, participants not only felt more confident in their digital abilities but also envisioned new opportunities for themselves

and their communities. One young attendee shared, “This training opened my eyes to the possibilities technology offers to innovate and make a difference. I am now motivated to pursue further learning and contribute to local development.”

Fostering Civic Engagement and Accountability through Interactive Radio Campaigns

This month, Dalbile launched an initiative aimed at enhancing civic engagement and promoting accountability through interactive radio and social media campaigns. The focus was on motivating youth to become more involved in community governance and ensuring that leaders are held responsible.

The initiative included:

• Campaign Videos: Dalbile created and distributed compelling videos that emphasized the role of youth, women, and civil society in driving effective governance. These videos were shared across multiple social media platforms and aired on The Ministry of Youth and Sports of Hirshabelle, reaching thousands of young viewers and sparking important conversations about social issues.

This initiative not only amplified the voices of young people in Southwest State but also played a key role in fostering a culture of accountability and transparency within the community by reaching around a nin thousand people. To learn more, watch the campaign video on the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Hirshabelle.