About ACCOS

Who we are

ACCOS is a Somali-led, non-profit, non-governmental organisation dedicated to improving the lives of children and communities across Somalia.

We were established in response to the acute and chronic humanitarian needs facing Somali children. Our programming is rights-based and child-centred, and it places the dignity, safety and wellbeing of children at the heart of everything we do.

In the Southwest State, access to basic services remains critically limited, and children bear the heaviest burden of poverty, displacement, malnutrition and violence. Through multi-sectoral programmes, we respond to their immediate needs and to the long-term needs of their families.

Core values

• Child-centredness. Every decision, programme and action prioritises the best interests of the child.
• Accountability. We are transparent and accountable to the children, communities and partners we serve.
• Integrity. We uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, honesty and professionalism.
• Inclusion. Our programmes reach the most marginalised, leaving no child behind.
• Localisation. We build and strengthen local systems, capacities and leadership.
• Collaboration. We work with communities, government and other stakeholders to maximise impact.

Strategic objectives

• Respond. Deliver lifesaving humanitarian assistance to children and families affected by conflict, drought, displacement and disease outbreaks in Somalia.
• Protect. Strengthen child protection systems to prevent and respond to violence, abuse, exploitation and neglect affecting children.
• Improve access. Improve access to quality education, nutrition and health services for children in underserved communities.
• Build capacity. Build the capacity of local communities, community-based organisations and government structures to sustain child-focused programmes.

Where we work

• Southwest State of Somalia (Primary). Our main focus, given the severity of humanitarian needs, high internal displacement, and the limited presence of national and international actors in remote and rural areas.
• Mogadishu, Banaadir Region (Secondary). Home to our head office and programmes in the capital.
• Other Federal Member States (Expanding). As operational needs and partnerships grow.

Who we serve

• Children aged 0–18, with particular emphasis on children under five
• Girls and adolescent females at risk of gender-based violence and harmful practices
• Internally displaced people, including children separated from their families
• Children with disabilities and other marginalised groups
• Pregnant and lactating women
• Female-headed households and caregivers of vulnerable children
• Out-of-school children and youth

Organisational capacity

Our people

Qualified Somali professionals with expertise in humanitarian programming, child protection, health, nutrition, education, finance and administration. A lean, effective team with national and field staff embedded in the communities they serve.

Financial management

Sound practices in line with internationally recognised standards: transparent financial systems, regular internal audits, and adherence to donor compliance requirements.

MEAL

A robust Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning system tracks performance and quality. Community feedback mechanisms run through every programme cycle, so children and communities shape how we learn and adapt.

Safeguarding

All ACCOS staff, volunteers and partners must follow our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy, which reflects international standards including the IASC Guidelines on Child Protection.

We operate clear reporting, investigation and response mechanisms so that safeguarding concerns are handled promptly and effectively.

Zero tolerance for any form of exploitation, abuse or harassment. To raise a safeguarding concern, contact us at info@accossom.org.