Somalia’s Data-Driven Revolution: Transforming Displacement Solutions

Somalia is pioneering an innovative, data-centric approach to addressing displacement challenges. Through a combination of government leadership, private-sector collaboration, and precise, real-time analytics, the country is setting a precedent for sustainable solutions in fragile contexts.

The Power of Data in Displacement Solutions

From Survey to Strategy: The Evolution of DSPS

The Durable Solutions Progress Survey (DSPS) has evolved from a simple monitoring tool into a national framework that provides critical insights into:

This granular data fuels:

✅ Targeted Resource Allocation → Ensuring interventions match community needs
✅ Geographic Vulnerability Mapping → Identifying high-risk areas
✅ Evidence-Based Intervention Design → Maximizing impact with precision
✅ Real-Time Monitoring → Enabling agile responses to emerging needs

Government Leadership: A Whole-of-Government Approach

The Derisnimo Model: A Community-Centric Framework

Somalia’s Derisnimo Model embodies a neighborhood-based approach that integrates:

Technical Working Groups further enhance coordination, ensuring:

• Humanitarian-Development Alignment

• Cross-Sector Collaboration

• Sustainable Solutions Implementation

Urban Success Stories: Impact on the Ground

Garowe’s Transformation

✅ 1,000 shelters constructed
✅ 6,000+ beneficiaries supported
✅ Women’s land rights strengthened
✅ Effective dispute resolution mechanisms

Mogadishu’s Innovation

📢 IDP Representation in Governance – Inclusive decision-making
📊 Participatory Urban Planning – Community-driven solutions
🏙 Integrated Development Strategies – Holistic infrastructure projects

Public-Private Partnerships: Driving Sustainable Impact

Collaborative Solutions

🤝 Land Donation Programs → Expanding safe settlements
🚧 Infrastructure Development → Roads, sanitation, and utilities
💼 Market Access Facilitation → Economic empowerment for IDPs
🏠 Integrated Rental Solutions → Affordable, long-term housing

Tangible Benefits

✔ Reduced Eviction Risks
✔ Enhanced Public Services
✔ Sustainable Livelihoods
✔ Affordable Housing Expansion

Strategic Actions for Transformation

Immediate Priorities (0–6 months)

📊 Data Integration

• National public dashboard for displacement solutions

• Expanded DSPS implementation

• Transparency mechanisms

📜 Policy Development

• Creation of a national policy framework

• Model standardization for interventions

• Development of operating procedures

Long-Term Focus (6–18+ months)

🎓 Capacity Building

• Training for municipal leadership

• Strengthening technical expertise

• Expanding data analysis capabilities

💼 Sustainable Livelihoods

• Vocational training programs for IDPs

• Global partnerships to scale opportunities

• Inclusive approaches for marginalized groups

The February 2025 Learning Event: Key Takeaways

At the Driving Change Together Learning Event, held in Nairobi and Mogadishu, Somalia showcased:

💡 Operationalizing Referral Pathways – Connecting services efficiently
📊 Enhancing Data Utilization – Strengthening decision-making
🏙 Standardizing Urban Planning Approaches – Creating sustainable citie

Roadmap for Implementation

📍 Phase 1 (0–6 months)
✅ DSPS expansion
✅ Technical working groups launched
✅ Public dashboard operational

📍 Phase 2 (6–18 months)
✅ National policy frameworks implemented
✅ Training programs initiated
✅ Private-sector partnerships expanded

📍 Phase 3 (18+ months)
✅ System integration for long-term impact
✅ Impact assessments to refine strategies
✅ Global knowledge-sharing for broader adoption

Conclusion: A Model for the Future

Somalia’s approach to displacement solutions is a testament to the power of data-driven decision-making, government leadership, and multi-stakeholder collaboration.

🔹 Key pillars of success:
✔ Data-Driven Governance
✔ Strong Policy Leadership
✔ Community Engagement
✔ Public-Private Partnerships
✔ Sustainable Development

📢 For more details on Somalia’s displacement solutions, visit:
Somalia’s Ministry of Planning, Investment and Economic Development