In 2013 the United Nations, along with the Somali and Kenyan Governments, signed the Tripartite Agreement to repatriate Somalis who had lived in Kenya’s Dadaab Refugee Camp since 1991, when the civil war began. Camp residents were incentivized to return to Somalia, but most had left the country as young children or were born in the camp and had never been to Somalia. Since the agreement, 93,000 people have returned to Somalia, with most returnees settling in the port city of Kismayo. Those who returned were faced with limited livelihood opportunities, continued conflict, and the effects of climate change.
Alight has spent a decade working in Kismayo. We have constructed water facilities, established fishing cooperatives and built a fish market. Our many projects in the area have been centered around the interests of our clients— from the rehabilitation of the Waamo Football Stadium, to launching a microfinance institution to provide loans for women and youth wanting to launch businesses. We have fostered deep connections that have served as the foundation for us to do deeply impactful work. We run several health facilities in Kismayo and have invested in primary and secondary education, vocational training, and youth programs.
