Somalia: Three horrific acts of violence against children underscores urgent need for action

MOGADISHU, 11 November 2025 – Three horrific acts of violence against children in Somalia in recent weeks are highlighting the urgent need for the Somali government to approve and implement legislation that protects children, said Save the Children.

Since early October, Somalia has been rocked by three high-profile cases of violence against children, including the arson-murder of four young children by their father this week, the violent rape of an 11-year-old girl in late October, and the murder of a mother and her three daughters in early October. 

These incidents came just one month after Somalia became the 52^nd African country to ratify the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. This was an important first step towards strengthening domestic laws and policies to provide access to justice and protection for children, and underscores urgent needs for stronger child protection and justice for sexual, gender-based, and clan-related violence.

According to the most recent UN report on Children and Armed Conflict, sexual violence against children in Somalia rose from 197 cases in 2024 to 267 cases in 2025, reversing previous downward trends. 

In September this year, Save the Children surveyed 1,812 people (1,106 adults; 706 adolescents aged 14–17) across four states in Somalia. When asked which forms of GBV are most common in their community or camp, 76% of adults and 67% of children identified rape. Respondents said women aged 18–55, girls over 10, displaced women and girls, and girls with disabilities were among those at highest risk.

Save the Children's Country Director in Somalia, Mohamed Mohamud Hassan, said:

"Our hearts break for the children and women who have recently suffered this appalling violence. Violence against children must never be tolerated and the perpetrators of violence against children in Somalia must be held to account.

“Gender-based violence continues to be pervasive, particularly affecting displaced, rural and minority women and girls who face added risks amidst conflict and insecurity – and we know through our work that the effects of sexual abuse can be devastating and long-lasting. 

“Survivors are vulnerable to physical and psychological trauma, HIV/AIDS transmission and other sexually transmitted infections. For girls, sexual violence carries additional risks including unintended pregnancy and child marriage. It’s unacceptable that the fear of sexual and other forms of physical violence continues to be part of the daily lives of women and children in Somalia. 

"While we welcome the statement of the Federal Government of Somalia condemning recent acts of violence against women and children, we now call on the Federal Government of Somalia and its Federal Member States to urgently investigate these crimes and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.

“We urge donors and international partners to reverse recent aid cuts and prioritize investment in child protection and prevention of gender-based violence. Communities and civil society must work collectively to end harmful practices and strengthen reporting and accountability mechanisms.

“Save the Children reiterates our commitment to protecting Somalia's most vulnerable people. We stand ready to support national and local partners in strengthening prevention and response efforts surrounding conflict-related sexual violence. No child should have to endure such unspeakable brutality.”

Save the Children has been working in Somalia since 1951 to protect children from violence and uphold their rights to safety, dignity, and justice. We remain committed to supporting survivors through medical care, psychosocial support, and advocacy for stronger legal frameworks.

END

NOTES: 

[1] According to the UN Secretary-General’s Annual Report on Children and Armed Conflict, sexual violence against children in Somalia increased from 197 cases in 2024 to 267 cases in 2025. This marks a reversal of previous downward trends and highlights the growing vulnerability of girls in conflict-affected areas. 

A recent GBV assessment by Save the Children in September 2025 across Galmudug, Southwest State, Hirshabelle and Jubbaland regions of Somalia found rape as the most reported GBV, with 76% of adults and 67% of children citing it. Girls 10+, displaced women, and persons with disabilities faced highest risks. The report highlighted gaps in services, stigma, and underreporting.