Somalia's Minister of Family Signs Cooperation Agreement with Turkish Counterpart

Antalya, Turkey – The Minister of the Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development of the Federal Government of Somalia, Amb. Khadiija Maxamed Al-Makhzoumi, has signed a memorandum of understanding in the city of Antalya, Turkey with the Minister of the Ministry of Family and Social Services of the Republic of Türkiye, Mrs. Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş.

This agreement is about strengthening the cooperation between the two countries in the areas of social services and the development of family protection policies, with the aim of enhancing the relationship and collaboration between the two ministries.

The agreement also stipulates that both parties will cooperate in the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and best practices related to the development of social services, family protection, and strengthening the social structure, considering the important role that families play in the development and stability of society.

Among the provisions of the agreement are the protection of the rights of women and children, prevention of violence against women, safeguarding children from risks in digital environments, and the development of health services, education, care, and support for people with disabilities and the elderly.

Additionally, both parties agreed to collaborate on conducting training, conferences, and seminars, and the exchange of experts to enhance the knowledge and quality of social services.

Minister Amb. Khadiija Maxamed Al-Makhzoumi emphasized the importance of this agreement for the development of social services in Somalia, stating how her ministry is committed to strengthening international cooperation and benefiting from the experiences of partner countries, particularly the Republic of Türkiye.

It pointed out that this cooperation could contribute to the advancement of family protection, women's and children's rights, and support for vulnerable sectors of Somali society.

On the other hand, the Minister of the Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development of the Federal Government of Somalia, Amb. Khadiija Maxamed Al-Makhzoumi, delivered a speech in Antalya during a side event of the COP31 conference, which focused on ensuring a just transition based on community protection, care services, and women's empowerment.

The Minister presented in her speech the impact of climate change on Somalia, particularly the recurring droughts and floods affecting families, women, and children.

She also emphasized the importance of ensuring that climate change-related funding reaches vulnerable communities, especially women and families living in rural areas, noting the efforts of the Federal Government of Somalia to strengthen social safety programs and support families affected by natural disasters.

Finally, the Minister called for the full participation of women in the formulation of climate-related policies and the recognition of their crucial role in adapting to climate change and building community resilience.