Somalia conference in London focuses on protecting women and children

Efforts to tackle sexual violence have been highlighted at a major international conference on Somalia’s future.

Prime Minister David Cameron and other world leaders attended the event yesterday in London, where the UK and other donors pledged £84m in aid for the east African country.

A final communiqué, issued late yesterday, spoke of the challenges that remain in the country – including an agreement to work together to deal with sexual violence, creating awareness of the issue.

Erica Hall, Senior Child Rights Adviser for World Vision UK, said: “The conference has welcomed the commitment to protect women and children in Somalia, including efforts to tackle sexual violence.

“This is important, but we must be sure that it includes protecting vulnerable people, holding perpetrators accountable and, at the same time, making sure the needs of existing victims of sexual violence are met. This includes children, who must be given the support they need to rebuild their lives.

“Addressing these issues inevitably requires long-term funding, and we must ensure it reaches those who need it most.”

The conference, co-hosted by the UK and Somalia, took place yesterday at Lancaster House.