Combatting Gender-Based Violence: The Urgent Need for Action in Somalia

In a devastating series of events that shook the nation to its core, three Somali women lost their lives last week at the hands of their husbands in what police are labeling as marriage disputes. The incidents, which occurred in various regions including Mogadishu, the Lower Shabelle region, and the Qoryooley district, have ignited a wave of outrage and calls for urgent action from both citizens and lawmakers alike.

The brutal nature of these crimes underscores the pervasive issue of gender-based violence that continues to plague Somalia. Despite promises of justice from authorities, the reality on the ground paints a grim picture of the challenges faced by Somali women on a daily basis.

Police Chief Moalim Mahdi’s pledge to take action against the offenders is a step in the right direction. However, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the root causes of gender-based violence in the country. The absence of robust legal frameworks to deter such attacks only exacerbates the problem, leaving women vulnerable to harm and injustice.

The failure of parliament to pass meaningful legislation aimed at tackling gender-based violence is a glaring issue that cannot be ignored. The controversial bill debated in 2020 faced criticism for clauses that threatened to undermine women’s rights, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive approach that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all Somali citizens.

Amina Haji Elmi, director of the Mogadishu-based advocacy group Save Somali Women and Children, aptly summarizes the plight faced by Somali women, who not only endure the hardships of living in a war-torn country but also grapple with systemic challenges such as poverty and lack of support. The recent spate of killings serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for security agencies to deliver justice and protection to those most vulnerable.

The harrowing accounts of witnesses, including the heart-wrenching testimony of female MP Gobsan Muhumed, underscore the urgent need for action. The emotional toll inflicted on families, particularly children who witness such atrocities, is immeasurable and demands a swift and decisive response from authorities.

The arrest of another man in possession of gasoline and a matchbox, allegedly with intentions to harm his wife and children, serves as a chilling reminder of the pervasive nature of gender-based violence in Somali society. Prosecutors must utilize all available legal avenues to hold perpetrators accountable and ensure that justice is served.

Critics rightly point out that existing laws are insufficient in addressing the severity of gender-based violence and have called for the adoption of harsher penalties. It is imperative that the government takes decisive action to enact meaningful reforms that prioritize the safety and rights of all citizens, particularly women and children who are most at risk.

The recent killings of three Somali women serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action to combat gender-based violence in Somalia. It is incumbent upon authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of all citizens and to ensure that perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice. Anything less would be a grave injustice to the victims and their families, and a failure of the state to fulfill its duty to protect its most vulnerable members.