Udgoon Sustainable Develeopment Initiative

Udgoon Sustainable Development Initiative (USDI) is a non-governmental organization (NGO) established in 2016 to promote self-reliance and dignity among vulnerable people living in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) in Kenya and Somalia. Udgoon is a word from the local Somali language, meaning the pleasant, earthy scent that rises from the dry land when raindrops hit the soil after a long dry season. This phenomenon, known in English as petrichor, symbolizes renewal, relief, and hope for communities living in arid and semi-arid regions.

USDI works with diverse groups, including local populations, refugees, internally displaced people (IDPs), and returnees, implementing interventions through a multi-sectoral approach in the following areas: Climate Action and Livelihood Resilience, Education, Health, Nutrition, and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WaSH), Peace Building, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI), Social Accountability, and Emergency Response.

By adopting a community-based approach, USDI collaborates closely with local communities, authorities, and partners to drive sustainable development and resilience in ASAL regions.