WARDI CEO Hussein Dhubow Abdi Honored with Humanitarian Excellence Award
In a moment of profound pride for WARDI Relief and Development Initiatives, Chief Executive Officer, Hussein Dhubow Abdi, has been named the recipient of the Excellence in Humanitarian Development and Philanthropy in Somalia Award, conferred by the Independent Pan African Youth Parliament (IPAYP). This distinguished honor reflects Mr. Dhubow’s remarkable personal journey and the shared aspirations of all those committed to building a more resilient and inclusive Somalia.
For more than three decades, Hussein Dhubow Abdi has walked alongside the people of Somalia through some of the most turbulent chapters of the nation’s history. From conflict and displacement to droughts and floods, his life’s work has been dedicated to easing suffering, restoring dignity, and nurturing talents where it is most needed. The award is a fitting tribute to this enduring commitment; a recognition from a continental body that sees in him a model of visionary leadership grounded in service.
A Visionary Humanitarian Leader
At the helm of WARDI, Mr. Dhubow has led with a rare blend of compassion, strategic foresight, and unshakeable integrity. His leadership has transformed WARDI from a small, community-rooted initiative into one of Somalia’s most deeply rooted and respected national organizations, known for its unwavering focus on the vulnerable, including internally displaced persons (IDPs), women, children, and marginalized groups who have borne the greatest cost of Somalia’s crises.
Through his tireless efforts, WARDI has extended its reach across the country, delivering life-saving and integrated programs in health, education, protection, livelihoods, WASH, and emergency response. From remote drought-affected villages to the crowded camps of the displaced, his influence has been felt over the years through selfless initiatives that not only address immediate needs but also lay the foundations for sustainable development and resilience.
Recently, when thousands of IDPs fleeing the conflict in Adan Yabal flocked into already congested IDP camps in Gubadley district, Mr. Dhubow personally led efforts to ensure that WARDI’s teams were on the ground swiftly, delivering life-saving assistance. He worked tirelessly to mobilize emergency food, shelter, clean water, and medical care, while advocating with partners and authorities to secure additional support for these vulnerable populations. His empathy for the plight of the displaced was evident not only in his words but in his presence as he visited the camps, listening to the stories of mothers, children, and the elderly.
Transforming Somalia Through Sustainable Partnerships and Action
What distinguishes Hussein Dhubow is not only his technical expertise or his ability to mobilize resources, but his deep belief in the power of partnership and homegrown solutions. Time and again, he has brought together local leaders, government institutions, international agencies, and grassroots communities to co-create responses that reflect local realities and aspirations. His vision of humanitarian action is one that does not impose, but listens, learns, and stands in solidarity.
The Independent Pan African Youth Parliament, in presenting this award, highlighted Mr. Dhubow’s exemplary record in advancing humanitarian development in Somalia. His advocacy for inclusive programming, where the voices of women, youth, and displaced persons shape the design and delivery of interventions, has earned widespread respect. His work to strengthen community resilience, empower marginalized populations, and champion social justice embodies the very spirit of the award.
Reflecting on this honor, Mr. Dhubow shared words that echo the humility and collective ethos that have defined his career.
“This recognition is not about me alone. It belongs to the communities who inspire us with their courage, to the WARDI team who give their all every day, and to our partners who stand with us in solidarity. Together, we have proven that even in the most difficult times, positive change is possible when we work with integrity, respect, and a shared purpose.” He lamented.
A Shared Achievement of Excellence in Somalia
At WARDI, this award is more than a personal accolade for our CEO. It is a celebration of our selfless journey to supporting vulnerable communities in Somalia to live resilient and dignified lives. Over the past 32 years of WARDI’s existence, this journey has been shaped by collaboration, resilience, and a deep-rooted belief in the dignity of every human being. Therefore, this award is a tribute to the communities who, despite immense challenges, continue to dream of and work towards a better future. It is also a reminder to all of us in the humanitarian space that leadership is measured not in titles or awards, but in the lives we touch and the futures we help build.
