About Us
Development and Empowerment for Humanity (DEH) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of people in need. We believe that everyone deserves equal access to essential resources, services, and opportunities, and that is why we strive to provide for these communities and individuals in need.
DEH was founded in 2004 in response to the humanitarian crisis that had arisen as a result of the civil conflict and persistent droughts in Central Somalia. The organization was established with the primary aim of providing immediate humanitarian aid to affected populations, including marginalized communities, ethnic minorities, women, and people with disabilities. Initially, DEH’s programs were focused on delivering general food distribution and emergency water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions, with the goal of providing life-saving support to those in need.
As the crisis in Somalia persisted, so did the need for comprehensive and integrated support from humanitarian organizations. In response, DEH formed partnerships with United Nations agencies and other aid agencies to provide a range of programs that encompassed multiple sectors, including food security & livelihood, health, nutrition, protection, education, and others. Through these partnerships, DEH has been able to expand its operations and reached more communities in different regions of Somalia.
Over the years, DEH has adapted to the evolving needs of the communities it serves and has remained steadfast in its mission to empower individuals and promote sustainable development.
Our organization is founded on the belief that every person should have the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of their background or circumstances. We are dedicated to making a lasting impact through innovative and impactful programs that respond to the changing needs of communities in Somalia and around.
DEH is proud of its history and the legacy it has created. Our story is one of perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our beneficiaries. With continued hard work and determination, DEH will continue to be a driving force for positive change in Somalia and beyond for generations to come.
Mission and Vision Statement
Mission:
“Our mission is to collaborate with communities to end the persistent cycle of poverty through the implementation of innovative and locally driven solutions, ultimately leading to sustained prosperity.”
Vision:
“DEH envisions a Sub-Saharan Africa that is thriving, without the presence of poverty, social inequality, or violation of human rights.”
Goals
- To alleviate poverty and hunger in Somalia through effective and sustainable programs
- To promote education and capacity building for communities
- To improve access to basic health services
- To enhance food security and promote sustainable livelihoods
- To support disaster risk reduction and provide emergency relief
- To promote peace and stability through community engagement and reconciliation.
Team Members
The organization is led by a dedicated team of professionals with a passion for creating positive change in Somalia. The team includes experienced program managers, field coordinators, and support staff who work together to implement programs and achieve the organization’s goals. The team is diverse, with members from different backgrounds and nationalities, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the organization.
Humanitarian principles
- Humanity: Human suffering must be addressed wherever it is found. The purpose of humanitarian action is to protect life and health and ensure respect for human beings
- Neutrality: Humanitarian actors must not take sides in hostilities or engage in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature
- Impartiality: Humanitarian action must be
carried out on the basis of need alone, prioritizing the most urgent cases of
distress and making no distinctions on the basis of nationality, race, gender,
religion, class or political opinions - Independence: Humanitarian action must be autonomous from the political, economic, military or other objectives that any actor may hold with regard to areas where humanitarian action is being implemented.