Cairo: Salma Osman Abdi, the Executive Director of the SAFWAC Foundation, is making significant strides in empowering displaced communities in Cairo, Egypt. Born in Mogadishu, Somalia, Abdi moved to Cairo in 2006 and has been instrumental in the foundation since its establishment in 2011. Her dedication culminated in her appointment as Executive Director in late 2022.
According to Global Voices, the SAFWAC Foundation, officially registered with the Egyptian Ministry of Social Solidarity in 2022, is committed to improving the quality of life for Somali refugees and other vulnerable groups in Egypt. The organization focuses on empowering women, children, youth, and the elderly, offering vital services tailored to these demographics. SAFWAC has become a central hub for the Somali community in Egypt, extending its support to refugees from Yemen, Palestine, Ethiopia, Sudan, South Sudan, Eritrea, Iraq, and Syria.
Abdi elaborates that SAFWAC's services are concentrated in five key areas: Education and Awareness, Psychosocial and Legal Protection, Cultural and Literary Services, Space for Creativity, and Volunteer Preparation. These services aim to create an enabling environment for growth and interconnectivity among displaced communities.
The challenges faced by the Somali community in Egypt are numerous, including isolation, limited access to resources, and cultural barriers. SAFWAC addresses these issues by offering structured and accessible services that aim to reduce isolation and provide tools for resilience. The organization's programs are designed to address immediate needs while also promoting long-term empowerment through education, cultural engagement, and creativity.
Inclusivity is a central tenet of SAFWAC's mission. Abdi emphasizes that vulnerability and displacement transcend nationality and groupings, which is why the organization serves a diverse range of communities, fostering unity and dignity for all.
Recently, SAFWAC expanded its operations into Mogadishu, focusing on community awareness and promoting a culture of reading and literature. This initiative aims to create a more literate and culturally engaged society, supporting Somalis both in the diaspora and at home.
Abdi notes that SAFWAC has positively impacted thousands of individuals, alleviating isolation and supporting them through challenging times. The foundation is earning a respected status among Somali and general refugee communities. Looking to the future, Abdi hopes to expand SAFWAC's programs and reach more people, ensuring that no one feels forgotten or left behind. The foundation welcomes collaboration through volunteering, partnerships, or donations, inviting people to learn more about their programs and services online.
