UNDP Somalia - Caravan for peace

Caravan for peace

At first encounter, they could pass for 20 year olds. Their voices and agility is amazing. But, they have been around much longer. Most of them are in the 50s and 60s. Yet, their voices and acting prowess are as fresh as ever.

They have educated and entertained thousands in Somaliland, Puntland and South Central for decades. Now, they have embarked on a mission to spread the message of peace through music, drama, poetry and puppetry. Since last year, Geediga Nabada (the Peace Caravan) has been taking the message of peace to many areas of Somaliland and Puntland through road shows. Geediga Nabada is a 20-strong corps of Somali artists, musicians and poets who lead, educate and inspire Somalis on the need to adopt a peaceful means to resolving conflict and dialogue with Somali communities on issues affecting their safety and security. Currently, messages have been expanded to the rule of law.

Actresses from the peace caravan, Liberty Garden, Hargeisa

Listen to the group perform

The everyday activities are directed by The Bill Brookman Foundation and Kow Media Corp (KMC) with support from UNDP’s Community safety project. Kow Media Corp, the local organization coordinating the Geediga Nabada is working with partners in the Somali Community Safety Framework to facilitate knowledge and acceptance of community safety and security by the public. Kow Media Corp and the Bill Brookman Foundation have trained these artists to translate principles of community security through music, drama, dance and poetry. The caravan began road shows late last year.

The Geediga Nabada has engaged with many communities, including marginalised groups such as IDPs, youth, women and armed groups.

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