Good Governance and Leadership

Promoting inclusive governance, human rights, and institutional accountability through capacity strengthening and civic engagement at all levels.

Building Institutions, Empowering Citizens

Inclusive Systems and Accountable Leadership.

ADA’s governance and leadership programming is rooted in the belief that inclusive institutions and participatory systems are fundamental to equitable development and lasting peace. The organization supports governance structures that are responsive, transparent, and representative of the communities they serve. ADA works to strengthen civic space and promote a culture of accountability, particularly in fragile and post-conflict environments where governance deficits contribute to persistent vulnerability.

Through structured engagement with civil society, local authorities, and grassroots movements, ADA facilitates dialogue between citizens and duty-bearers. Interventions focus on building the capacity of government actors, training emerging leaders, and raising awareness of rights and responsibilities. These efforts are complemented by support to community-based monitoring mechanisms and the integration of democratic values into service delivery processes.

Good governance is mainstreamed across ADA’s thematic areas to reinforce transparency, safeguard equity, and promote inclusive decision-making. Whether in education, health, protection, or food security programming, ADA ensures that systems-level thinking is embedded into implementation. This integrated approach strengthens public trust, advances human rights, and fosters institutional resilience at the local and regional level.

Core Areas of Governance Programming

Civic Empowerment and Institutional Strengthening

ADA’s work in governance and leadership is structured across six focus areas that aim to improve accountability, expand participation, and enhance institutional performance. These components reflect a systemic approach to building democratic resilience and empowering communities to influence public processes. Each area combines advocacy, capacity development, and rights-based methodologies tailored to the evolving governance landscape in Somalia and the Horn of Africa.

Civic Engagement and Participation

Promoting active citizen involvement in decision-making and development planning.

Leadership Development Initiatives

Equipping youth and women with skills to lead change in local governance systems.

Capacity Building for Institutions

Strengthening public institutions to deliver inclusive, accountable governance.

Rights Awareness and Advocacy

Educating communities on rights, duties, and accountability of state actors.

Social Accountability Mechanisms

Supporting tools that enable citizens to monitor public service delivery.

Inclusive Policy Dialogue Forums

Facilitating platforms for stakeholders to shape local and regional policy priorities.