Deadline: 10-Feb-2026
UNICEF has issued a call for Expression of Interest (EOI) to partner with organizations in Somalia, particularly in Woqooyi Galbeed, to improve child and adolescent outcomes through integrated education, protection, and social protection programs. The initiative emphasizes inclusive, evidence-based, and community-focused interventions that strengthen resilience and ensure equitable access to services for vulnerable populations.
About the Initiative
UNICEF’s call seeks experienced partners to implement programs addressing the complex education, protection, and social protection needs of children and families in fragile and crisis-affected settings. The initiative prioritizes integrated, cross-sectoral approaches that embed disability inclusion, emergency preparedness, disaster risk reduction, and gender equality. Programs aim to strengthen community resilience and provide equitable access to essential services, especially for children affected by poverty, displacement, or conflict.
Key Focus Areas
Education
Education is central to UNICEF’s initiative. Priority actions include:
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Early childhood development and foundational learning.
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Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) approaches during early primary years.
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Education in emergencies and re-engagement of out-of-school children.
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Skills development for adolescents, including digital and market-oriented learning.
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Inclusive access for marginalized groups, including girls, children with disabilities, and conflict-affected children.
Protection
Protection interventions focus on safeguarding children and families. Key measures include:
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Community-based child protection services.
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Prevention of and response to violence, abuse, and exploitation.
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Legal assistance and access to justice.
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Protection in emergency and crisis contexts.
Social Protection
The program addresses Somalia’s multidimensional child poverty and limited social protection coverage. Objectives include:
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Supporting social policy and advocacy at national and sub-national levels.
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Strengthening shock-responsive social protection systems.
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Expanding integrated services linking humanitarian, development, and peace efforts.
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Using schools as community hubs to deliver coordinated services.
Who is Eligible?
UNICEF is looking for organizations with proven experience in:
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Delivering integrated, child-focused programs in fragile or crisis-affected contexts.
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Evidence-based education, protection, or social protection interventions.
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Inclusive programming promoting gender equality, disability inclusion, and community resilience.
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Working with government institutions and local communities to implement scalable solutions.
Why It Matters
Somalia faces high levels of child poverty, displacement, and limited access to education and protection services. Children in Woqooyi Galbeed are particularly vulnerable to conflict-related shocks. Strengthening integrated community services ensures long-term, sustainable impact on children’s safety, learning outcomes, and overall well-being.
How to Apply
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Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Include organizational details, past experience, and proposed approach.
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Demonstrate Technical Capacity: Provide evidence of successful cross-sectoral programs in similar contexts.
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Detail Program Approach: Highlight strategies for education, protection, and social protection interventions.
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Include Budget and Timeline: Outline financial planning and projected program milestones.
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Submit by Deadline: Ensure all documents meet UNICEF’s submission requirements.
Tips for Applicants
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Emphasize integrated, multi-sectoral approaches rather than single-sector interventions.
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Include data-driven evidence to support strategies.
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Highlight community engagement and participatory methods.
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Clearly define monitoring and evaluation metrics for learning outcomes and protection impact.
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Address inclusion of marginalized groups, including girls, children with disabilities, and displaced populations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the goal of this UNICEF initiative? To improve education, protection, and social protection outcomes for children and adolescents in Somalia, focusing on Woqooyi Galbeed.
2. Who can apply? Organizations with experience in integrated child-focused programs in fragile or crisis-affected contexts.
3. Which sectors are prioritized? Education, child protection, social protection, gender equality, disability inclusion, emergency preparedness, and disaster risk reduction.
4. Are digital learning tools encouraged? Yes, especially to reach marginalized learners and adolescents requiring market-relevant skills.
5. How does UNICEF define integrated programming? Programs combining education, protection, and social protection, linking humanitarian, development, and peace initiatives.
6. What is the focus on gender equality? Programs must promote women’s empowerment, address gender disparities, and ensure girls’ equitable access to services.
7. How are communities involved? Through participatory planning, community-based protection systems, and school-based service hubs.
Conclusion
UNICEF’s call in Somalia offers organizations an opportunity to deliver integrated, evidence-based, and inclusive programs for vulnerable children and adolescents. By focusing on education, protection, and social protection and prioritizing community engagement and equitable access, partners can make a sustainable, child-centered impact in Woqooyi Galbeed and beyond.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.
