Abdiaziz District-Talo Wadaag 2 Inauguration Forum Highlights, October 26th, 2023
The Heritage Institute, in collaboration with Interpeace, engaged with officials from Abdiaziz District on October 26th, 2023, in a diverse array of activities. These activities included social events such as sports, and visits to historical sites, including the Abdiaziz Mosque constructed 800 years ago, from which the district derives its name. Additionally, participants toured Lido Beach and Abdiaziz’s fish market. The Heritage Institute and Interpeace, in partnership with Abdiaziz District, organized an inaugural forum for the implementation of the Talo Wadaag 2 program in the district. The main objectives of the inauguration were to establish rapport with local authorities and diverse social groups within Abdiaziz District, familiarize HIPS-Interpeace staff members with the environment in which they would be working throughout 2024, and gain a general understanding of the district’s history, culture, social dynamics, challenges, and opportunities. Over 70 individuals representing various levels of local authorities and social groups, including peace committees, women’s and youth associations, sports organizations, business owners, traditional elders, and cultural groups, participated in the inauguration forum. Participants expressed their feelings and perspectives through performances such as Somali music, traditional dancing, and poetry recitals. Furthermore, locals remained engaged until late at night, sharing their stories and experiences. The video also includes a snippet from a forum titled ‘Abdiaziz District Residents’ Engagement with Local Authorities: Challenges and the Way Forward,’ held on February 8th, 2024.