18 Februry 2006 – GLED Somalia closed the first phase of the community safety seminar for 20 participants from youth and student organization in Baidoa Somalia.

The seminar was held in the theatre of Baidoa University.

The participants were learning issues relating to the effects of the small arms in the community, the basic principles of human rights, the customary law of Somali people and its relation to the political conflicts and conflict resolution.

The workshop lasted 5 days, and was intended to provide community awareness and safety mobilisation. During the week of the workshop, the most critical debates were about the customary laws, that they stated as anti human rights issues.

Abdulahi Omar Ganey, speaking on behalf of the workshop participants said “We learnt many things from the workshop, we saw that the problem in this country starts from our customary laws and violates the human rights” adding that “we will share all what we learn with our colleagues and community and we appreciate the efforts of GLED Somalia, the IANSA members and the facilitators will result in a good way to end the arms in the hands of the community and we will reach a time that we will burn all arms and will collects pens only”.

Hussien Mohamoud, the Minister for the Higher Education and Culture, speaking in the conclusion ceremony said “I am sure that young people will benefit from what they learn, but let those benefits reach your people” adding that “Those who organised this workshop are youth - they are under 30 all of them, and the ministry will appreciate all your efforts and will help you if you need experts and comments from us”.

The Minister welcomed the community safety campaign conducted by GLED Somalia, and promised that he will propose the government to support the efforts of GLED Somalia.

Hassan Moalin Yusuf, the GLED Somalia public relation officer praised the participants and appreciated for their hard work during the workshop.

He said “It is a great pleasure for us that youth groups and students are ready to help their people and I am sure that every one of you will submit the message you learn to the people” adding that “the community starts from ourselves, then families then locals and communities”.

At the end the minister was invited to grant certificates for those who completed the five days workshop.

The participants were very happy to take those certificates and promised that they will voluntarily work in the community to ensure safety.

This workshop was the first phase of a series of workshops intended to raise community awareness and ensure their safety as part of the PUT THE GUN TAKE THE PEN Project run by GLED Somalia.