Celebrating 40 Years of Lasting Impact in Somalia

Photo Story | 17 December 2026

 

SOS Children's Villages in Somalia celebrated its 40th anniversary on 17th December 2025 at the National Theatre of Somalia in Mogadishu, a significant milestone that drew over 500 participants in a spirit of gratitude and recognition.

The event was graced by the Minister of Health and Human Services (MOH) of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Honourable Dr. Ali Haji Adam and included senior representatives from key line ministries, humanitarian partners, civil society organizations, private sector leaders, youth and women's groups, religious and traditional leaders, SOS alumni, media, schoolchildren, and community members. The colourful event featured traditional entertainers and children showcasing their talents through engaging skits, songs, and traditional dances, adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the celebration.

During the event, government officials, the private sector, civil society organizations, and community representatives praised SOS Children's Villages for its vital contributions, particularly during times of civil war, most notably for operating the only public medical facility during the height of the conflict. The organization was also recognized not only for training a new generation of career-oriented youth who now serve their communities, but also for providing loving homes for children.

The anniversary served as a platform to reconnect with alumni and showcase the long-term impact of investing in children and youth development, as well as the ongoing dedication to building a brighter future for children and communities in Somalia.

Step into the celebration with us through 20 curated photos, each capturing the energy, joy, and unforgettable moments of our anniversary.

 

Front view of the Somali National Theatre in Mogadishu, where the 40th Anniversary celebrations were held on 17 December 2025.

 

 

Schoolchildren arrive at the Somali National Theatre to participate in the event on 17 December 2025.

 

 

Traditional dancers welcome guests with a Somali dance at the Somali National Theatre on 17 December 2025.

 

 

Abdikadir Dakane, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Somalia, briefs the media on the organization’s work and its journey in Somalia ahead of the event kickoff.

 

 

Senior officials and representatives from government, the private sector, SOS Children’s Villages and partner organizations follow a stage performance by schoolchildren highlighting the importance of education.

 

 

Schoolchildren perform a song highlighting the journey and impact of SOS Children’s Villages in Somalia.

 

 

Schoolchildren from SOS Primary and Secondary School enjoy the celebration as their classmates perform a short skit and song on stage.

 

 

Mama Osob, an SOS Children’s Villages mother in Mogadishu, shares her over 10-year journey, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to care for children.

 

 

Abdi Osman, the longest-serving staff member of SOS Children’s Villages Somalia, shares his 40-year journey, evolving from grader operator, technician, trainer, and today serving as facility maintenance supervisor.

 

 

Deputy Chairperson of IBS Bank, one of our valued local sponsors, described SOS Children’s Villages as a mother and father to many children, many of whom are now serving the nation in different capacities.

 

 

 

Ugaas Mohamud Ali, a renowned traditional leader, thanked SOS Children’s Villages for supporting the Somali people through their most testing times, from the height of the civil war to the present day.

 

 

Abdikadir Dakane, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Somalia, walked the participants through the organization’s 40-year journey, expressing gratitude to everyone who has contributed to delivering our work to children and families who need it most.

 

 

Mohamed Abdi, NRC’s Somalia Country Director, reiterated that it is through resilience and community acceptance that SOS Children’s Villages has achieved this milestone in serving the nation and beyond.

 

 

State Minister for Family and Human Rights Development, Honourable Mohamed Osman Naastaro, expressed appreciation for SOS Children’s Villages’ role in shaping the lives of children and young people, and for its strong coordination with the Ministry and other stakeholders.

 

 

Dr. Ali Haji Adam, Minister for Health and Human Services of the Federal Republic of Somalia and Guest of Honour, addresses the event, expressing gratitude to SOS Children’s Villages for its 40 years of continuous service to the Somali nation.

 

 

Students from SOS College of Health Sciences University pose for a group photo during the celebration at the Somali National Theatre on 17 December 2025.

 

 

Students from SOS Primary and Secondary School celebrate the 40th anniversary, posing joyfully in blue and yellow attire at the Somali National Theatre on 17 December 2025.

 

 

After a fantastic event, students from SOS Primary and Secondary School gathered for a group photo outside the Somali National Theatre.

 

 

Heliwa District Commissioner Mr. Abdifatah Mohamed presents a signed football to three female tournament officials in recognition of their role in successfully concluding the competition.

 

 

The final match of the 40th Anniversary football tournament, graced by the District Commissioner of Heliwa District at SOS Children’s Village, Mogadishu.