Building resilient communities and creating sustainable opportunities
For more than two decades, SAYS has advanced human rights, resilient livelihoods, inclusive governance and sustainable development for the people of Somaliland who need it most.
A locally-rooted NGO trusted across all six regions of Somaliland
The Somaliland Association for Youth Salvation is a nationally registered, non-political, non-partisan humanitarian and development organisation headquartered in Borama, Awdal Region. Established on 23 February 2002, SAYS has grown over more than two decades into a credible, multi-sectoral NGO delivering complex programmes in food security, protection, gender equality, governance, climate resilience and humanitarian response.
A Somaliland where all people — especially the most marginalised — live with dignity, enjoy their fundamental rights, and actively shape an equitable, prosperous and resilient society.
To empower marginalised and vulnerable communities across Somaliland to access sustainable livelihoods, fully realise their human rights, and participate meaningfully in public life — through community-centred programming, advocacy and strategic partnership.
Six strategic pillars, one integrated approach
Our 2026–2030 strategy is anchored in six interconnected pillars aligned with Somaliland's NDP III, the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus.
Food Security, Livelihoods & Economic Empowerment
Conditional cash transfers, climate-smart agriculture, livestock support, irrigation, vocational skills and enterprise development — reaching over 15,000 households with partners including WFP, FAO and WHH.
Human Rights, Protection & GBV Response
Survivor-centred psychosocial support, GBV prevention and response, child protection, anti-trafficking, legal referrals and advocacy for policy reform, working with community protection networks.
Governance, Accountability & Civic Participation
Civic education, community dialogue, local government strengthening, and building the leadership capacity of women and youth for public life and accountable service delivery.
Youth Empowerment & Education
Central to SAYS's founding mandate: marketable skills training, digital literacy, entrepreneurship, internships, and psychosocial support for at-risk youth.
Climate Resilience & Disaster Risk Reduction
Community-based DRR, natural resource management, drought preparedness and climate-adaptive livelihoods that help communities withstand recurring shocks.
Organisational Capacity & Sustainability
Strengthening SAYS's systems, MEAL, financial management and partnerships to remain a credible, accountable and sustainable local partner.
Two decades of measurable results
Figures reflect SAYS's cumulative reach; targets are drawn from the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan.
News & announcements
SAYS advances 2026–2030 Strategic Plan across six regions
SAYS begins implementation of its new five-year strategy, anchored in six pillars aligned with Somaliland's NDP III, the SDGs and the HDP Nexus.
Read moreStrengthening safeguarding and PSEA systems organisation-wide
SAYS reaffirms its zero-tolerance commitment, rolling out refreshed reporting pathways and mandatory staff training on protection from sexual exploitation and abuse.
Read moreUrban displacement study informs durable-solutions planning in Borama
Findings from the UNOPS/Cities Alliance feasibility study are being used to shape nutrition-sensitive social protection for displacement-affected communities.
Read moreSafeguarding & protection from sexual exploitation and abuse
SAYS is committed to a safe environment for everyone who engages with us. Our survivor-centred approach prioritises the safety, dignity and wishes of survivors, upholds strict confidentiality, and takes firm action against any violation — with no exception.
Working alongside leading UN agencies, INGOs and donors
SAYS delivers complex, multi-sector programmes through a robust partnership ecosystem governed by formal agreements aligned with Core Humanitarian Standard principles.
Partner and donor logos are displayed only with appropriate authorization; names are shown here as text placeholders.
Partner with SAYS to reach communities that need it most
Whether you are a donor, UN agency, INGO or local partner, we welcome the opportunity to work together toward a resilient and equitable Somaliland.