Transsom
Represent the transgender community in Somalia and promote their interests in the field of human rights
Transsom
About us
Transgender Somalia (TRANSSOM) is a trans-led organization established in 2017 as the first and only transgender movement in Somalia. The organization is dedicated to representing and advocating for the rights and well-being of the transgender community in Somalia. With a growing membership base of over 300 trans individuals, TRANSSOM’s mission is to empower, mobilize, and connect the transgender community to build a robust movement capable of driving significant social change. TRANSSOM aims to achieve social inclusivity, recognition of transgender rights, and legal protection for transgender people in one of the world’s most challenging environments for LGBTQ+ rights.
Vision
A Somalia where transgender individuals are recognized, respected, and afforded equal rights and protections.
Mission
To create a strong, unified transgender movement in Somalia that challenges discrimination, fosters social inclusion, and advocates for policy changes to improve the lives of transgender individuals.
Core Activities
Representation and Advocacy
Represent the transgender community in Somalia and promote their interests in the field of human rights, addressing the brutal prosecution and systemic exclusion they face.
Community Mobilization
Reach out to, mobilize, and connect transgender individuals across Somalia under the TRANSSOM banner to build collective power and solidarity in their fight for rights and recognition
Safe Spaces
Establish safe spaces where transgender individuals can connect, communicate, and address pressing issues collectively, particularly in times of social distancing and beyond.
Policy Advocacy
Advocate for policy changes to recognize and integrate the transgender community within Somali society, dismantling barriers to their inclusion.
Organizational Outreach
Build partnerships with trans-friendly organizations to ensure recognition and response to the unique needs of transgender individuals
Leadership and Structure
TRANSSOM is a fully trans-led and owned organization. All decision-making roles, including strategic and financial planning, are held by transgender individuals. The organization’s members include 121 trans men and 179 trans women, making transgender people 100% of its staff, spokespeople, members, and board of directors. This structure ensures that the organization remains true to its mission of being trans-focused and trans-empowered.
Context and Challenges
Somalia is considered one of the most dangerous places to be transgender. The transgender community faces pervasive discrimination, exclusion, and persecution. Somali society’s negative stereotypes about transgender individuals lead to harassment, intimidation, and even violence, forcing many to hide their gender identity and sexual orientation. Transgender individuals are particularly vulnerable to:
Persecution by Extremist Groups
In areas controlled by Al-Shabaab, a terrorist organization affiliated with Al-Qaeda, transgender people face severe punishment, persecution, and displacement.
Violence and Discrimination
Transgender individuals experience frequent sexual and physical violence and are denied access to education, employment, and healthcare.
Humanitarian Neglect
The ongoing conflict, political instability, and humanitarian crises in Somalia exacerbate the marginalization of transgender people, who are often overlooked by humanitarian organizations.
Achievements and Impact
Since its founding, TRANSSOM has:
- Mobilized a growing community of over 300 transgender individuals, building a unified movement.
- Advocated for increased visibility and recognition of transgender issues in Somali society.
- Provided safe spaces for transgender individuals to connect and support one another.
- Partnered with allies and organizations to address the unique challenges faced by transgender people in Somalia.
Future Goals
- Expand outreach efforts to include more transgender individuals across Somalia.
- Foster partnerships with local and international organizations to amplify transgender voices and needs in humanitarian and development initiatives.
- Strengthen advocacy campaigns for legal protections and societal recognition of transgender rights.
- Develop programs to address economic empowerment and access to education and healthcare for transgender individuals.
Transsom
For more information about Transgender Somalia (TRANSSOM) or to support its work, please contact: