We, the Somalia Evaluation Society (SOMES), are a newly established professional body that seeks to strengthen evaluation practice and promote a culture of evidence-based decision-making in Somalia. Founded through an inclusive and participatory process led by MoPIED, SOMES emerged in response to critical gaps in Somalia's evaluation landscape — weak institutional coordination, limited capacity development, underutilization of evaluation evidence, lack of youth engagement, and absence of regional and global representation.
Guided by our core values, we connect evaluators under a shared ethical and professional framework: promoting high standards, supporting young and emerging evaluators, encouraging the systematic use of evidence in policy and planning, and fostering partnerships with networks such as AfrEA, IOCE and EvalYouth.
Through these efforts, SOMES positions itself as the cornerstone of a credible, independent and nationally owned evaluation system — contributing to transparency, good governance and effective development outcomes across Somalia.
“A credible, inclusive, and professional evaluation community that strengthens evidence-based decision-making and accountability for sustainable development in Somalia.”
“To build and promote a strong, ethical, and professional evaluation culture in Somalia through capacity development, standard-setting, advocacy, and networking.”
Five gaps in Somalia's evaluation landscape.
A 2023 UNICEF-funded Evaluation Landscape Analysis identified the structural gaps that led MoPIED to establish SOMES.
Institutional Gap
No legally recognized professional body for evaluators, resulting in weak coordination and inconsistent standards.
Capacity Gap
No structured frameworks for training, mentoring, or certifying evaluators despite a steady flow of M&E graduates.
Policy Gap
Evaluation evidence is underutilized by policymakers, undermining accountability and resource efficiency.
Youth Engagement Gap
No pathway for youth and emerging evaluators to participate or advance professionally.
Regional Integration Gap
Limited representation in regional and global evaluation networks reduces peer learning and visibility.