March 26, 2024

The Somalia Division is working not only to encourage defections from the armed group Al-Shabaab, but also to help surrendered or captured individuals go through a process of deradicalization and reintegration into society.

This time, we would like to share the latest updates from our rehabilitation facility in Somalia.


1. Hussein – Now an Agent of Peace

Hussein (alias), from a region in central Somalia’s Galmudug State once controlled by Al-Shabaab, was originally kidnapped and forced to join the group.

However, after witnessing the group’s violence against innocent civilians, he began to question their actions deeply. Eventually, he surrendered and joined our rehabilitation center, where he participated for about a year in a comprehensive rehabilitation program – including care counseling, vocational and life skills training, basic education, and religious education. ▲ Hussein (in yellow) at the rehabilitation center, taking part in a traditional Somali dance activity.

After completing the program, Hussein successfully found employment as a soldier in the Somali National Army and is now serving as an agent of peace. He has already been deployed to the front lines and, as part of his duties, traveled 150 km to bring newly surrendered combatants to our rehabilitation center. Because of his own past experiences in Al-Shabaab, he can speak to them in ways that truly resonate.

Hussein told us:

“Thanks to Yosuke (our organization’s representative, Mr. Nagai) and everyone in Japan, I am who I am today. From now on, I will do my best to contribute to a peaceful Somali society.”

Our goal is not just to bring people from negative to neutral, but to believe in their limitless potential – to turn it into positives and create a virtuous cycle that leads to lasting peace and solutions that tackle the roots of issues.

We are proud of Hussein, who embodies this mission, and we remain committed to supporting more individuals like him, people who will carry the torch of peace and help break the chains of hatred. ▲ Hussein now serves on the front lines as part of the Somali National Army. ▲ A surrendered combatant Hussein personally brought to our rehabilitation center.


2. Graduation Ceremony for Youth Who Completed the Rehabilitation Program

This month, four new young men completed their one-year rehabilitation program at our camp for former combatants and celebrated their graduation, just like Hussein once did.

These youths had joined Al-Shabaab in the past due to threats to their families, pressure from relatives, or economic hardship. Through the rehabilitation program, they regained hope and expressed their aspirations for the future: “to spend more time with family,” “to finally attend school,” and “to help with family work.”

At each graduation ceremony, it has become a joyful tradition to look back and laugh at the “before and after” photos from the day they surrendered to how far they’ve come today.

▶ Learn more about becoming an Accept Ambassador ▲ A joyful moment at the graduation ceremony, with bright smiles all around.


3. Heartwarming News from the Rehabilitation Center

Finally, a little heartwarming update:

Many kittens have recently been born at our rehabilitation center! They are loved by both the youth participants and our staff, and interacting with them brings everyone moments of peace and comfort.

Learning to love and care for another living being is also a deeply meaningful step for the youth as they rebuild their lives.

Please enjoy these photos of our adorable cats – we hope they warm your heart too! We will continue not only our activities to break the cycle of hatred, but also share more small, heartwarming stories from the field. Thank you very much for your continued warm support.


To Our Readers

All of these initiatives for the youth are made possible through your support, particularly from those who join as “Accept Ambassadors”, contributing from just 10 USD per month.

To rescue more young people from violence, support them on new paths forward, and help resolve the roots of terrorism and armed conflict, we still need much more help.

We hope you will walk with us as an Accept Ambassador – to help break the chains of hatred and build a more peaceful future together.

➡ Become an Accept Ambassador