Emergency Peace: Rapid Funds for Local Response

As election delays and high-level power struggles dominate the news, local Somali peacebuilding efforts are at times put on the back burner. Attention and resources are often devoted to the big picture issues of Somalia and the community-level grievances are often ignored. It is easy to forget that these local grievances and disagreements are often at the root cause of larger conflicts and can quickly spiral out of control into armed conflict.

Supporting this project and contributing to the Rapid Fund for Local Response will help communities solve these issues and prevent violence and suffering. The Rapid Response Fund seeks to support community-led peace initiatives, enable early response to conflict, and assist in de-escalating tensions in communities throughout Somalia. Below is a request from the Burtinle District Peace Committee which highlights the importance of this work and how we can each play a part in the pursuit of a more peaceful Somalia.

In Burtinle District, Puntland, two armed groups clashed over access to and control of land leading to the death of six people. Nine others were injured in the process. It is understood that the conflict was motivated by historical prejudice and grievances that have remained unresolved over the years. These clashes have caused great harm and if not addressed early enough, could cause more destruction.

The District Peace Committee of Burtinle has continuously requested logistical support through the Rapid Response Fund to prevent further loss of life and to address the conflict among the groups through peaceful mediation and dialogue. Funds will be used to bring the conflicting groups to a Somali-style seating where the District Peace Committee will mobilize leaders from the tribes, community, religious groups, and Puntland authorities in a safe and trusting environment. Through the discussion of grievances and the exploration of solutions, the community will resolve these issues which have become a recurring source of violence.

Join us in supporting the work of District Peace Committees such as Burtinle in their work enabling peaceful conflict resolution at the community level. Your contribution to the Rapid Response Fund will contribute to the power of local peacebuilding committees to restore peace and save lives throughout Somalia.