About CIAG
Empowering Women. Advancing Governance. Building Accountability.
Our Story
CIAG was founded in 2023 by women activists who recognized the urgent need for institutional support to advance women's leadership in Somaliland. Their shared experience revealed deep-rooted structural and cultural barriers that restrict women from accessing leadership roles.
Since 2024, CIAG has achieved significant milestones:
- Trained over 150 women leaders on leadership, advocacy, and networking skills
- Organized 7 Public Forums and multiple stakeholder debates on women's leadership
- Built networks of women leaders and male allies across Somaliland
- Influenced discussions on gender-responsive policies and inclusive governance
- Conducted over 10 consultation workshops across Awdal, Maroodijeeh, and Togdheer regions
Today, CIAG stands as a center of excellence for dialogue, mentorship, and advocacy for women's leadership and accountable governance.
Our Core Values
Inclusivity & Diversity
Ensuring the participation of women, youth, and marginalized groups in all spheres of governance.
Integrity & Accountability
Upholding transparency, honesty, and ethical leadership in all our work.
Excellence
Striving for the highest standards in our programs, research, and advocacy efforts.
Empowerment & Collaboration
Building confidence, skills, and partnerships for lasting impact.
Innovation
Embracing new approaches and creative solutions to address governance challenges.
Neutrality & Respect
Maintaining impartiality while respecting diverse perspectives and viewpoints.
Our Impact Areas
Our Achievements Since 2024
Women Leaders Trained
Public Forums Organized
Youth Leaders Mobilized
Regional Workshops
Our Partners
CIAG is proud to partner with leading international organizations committed to advancing women's rights, democratic governance, and civic participation.
Heinrich Böll Stiftung (HBS)
Horn of Africa Program - Supporting women's political participation and good governance
NIMD
Netherlands Multiparty Democracy - Strengthening democratic processes and political dialogue
NED
National Endowment for Democracy - Promoting democratic institutions and civic engagement
Success Stories
From Candidate to Leader
After participating in CIAG's leadership training program, Amina became one of the first women to serve on her local council. She now mentors other aspiring women leaders.
"CIAG gave me not just skills, but the confidence to claim my place in leadership. Now I'm helping other women do the same."
- Amina Hassan, Local Council Member
Building Political Will
Through CIAG's dialogue forums, political parties committed to increasing women's representation in candidate lists for the upcoming elections.
"CIAG's evidence-based advocacy helped us see that women's representation isn't just fair—it's essential for good governance."
- Mohamed Ali, Political Party Leader