The Dhobley initiative connects women-led businesses with potential customers among mission personnel.
Kenyan female personnel serving in Somalia connect Dhobley women traders with potential customers through a local products exhibition.
KDF female peacekeepers serving in Somalia have created market opportunities for women-led businesses in Dhobley. The initiative connected local traders with mission personnel through an exhibition of handmade goods.
The Kenyan personnel serve under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Through the Female Soldiers Empowerment Program, they brought together members of the Dhobley Women Association Group.
The women displayed traditional deras, bedsheets, vikoi, sandals and other locally crafted items. The exhibition also gave them a chance to market their products, reach potential customers and earn income.
KDF female peacekeepers link livelihoods and peace
Dhobley Main Operating Base Commander Colonel Paul Nalimo highlighted the importance of women’s economic empowerment during the engagement. He said it strengthens household livelihoods and promotes social cohesion. He also linked it to addressing socio-economic challenges that can contribute to insecurity.
Meanwhile, the engagement gave KDF personnel and local community members an opportunity to interact. KDF said such contact helped strengthen mutual trust and civil-military relations.
The military also described the programme as an example of female peacekeepers’ contribution beyond security duties. It emphasised their role in building community partnerships and supporting inclusive development.
KDF said opportunities to improve livelihoods and build economic resilience help strengthen sustainable peace. Through the programme, it seeks to advance a people-centred approach to peace support operations. That approach recognises economically empowered women as important to resilient families and stable communities.
