Theory of Change
From Local Action to Systemic Change
The NEXUS Consortium’s Theory of Change envisions a shift from externally driven aid toward a system where Somali-led organizations design, deliver, and influence humanitarian, development, and peace interventions. Our change model is rooted in community ownership, integrated programming, and long-term partnerships that enable systems transformation, not just service delivery.
A Fragmented and Externally Driven Aid System
Problem Statement
The humanitarian, development, and peace sectors in Somalia have long been dominated by international actors, leading to fragmented, short-term interventions that often overlook local priorities, capacities, and systems.
Integrated, Locally Led, System-Focused Programming
Strategic Approach
NEXUS promotes locally led, integrated programming that aligns humanitarian response, development, and peacebuilding under a single, community-driven framework. We strengthen Somali civil society, collaborate with local governments, and advocate for systemic localization of aid.
Key Assumption # 1
Local Legitimacy Enables Impact
Somali organizations possess cultural insight, trust, and access that enable effective, community-rooted programming and long-term engagement across diverse regions.
Key Assumption # 2
Integrated Programming
Delivering humanitarian, development, and peace interventions through a unified approach reduces duplication, aligns goals, and maximizes community-level outcomes.
Key Assumption # 3
Evidence Enhances Policy
Somali-led research and lived experience provide credible, context-specific knowledge that shapes policy, shifts narratives, and advances localized development agendas.
Outcome # 1
Strengthened Local Institutions and Systems
Somali NGOs and local governments improve their internal governance, financial systems, and technical capacity to lead, implement, and sustain integrated programs.
Outcome # 2
Coordinated Delivery Across the Triple Nexus
Programs are designed and delivered across humanitarian, development, and peace sectors, maximizing reach, reducing fragmentation, and building long-term community resilience.
Outcome # 3
Increased Somali Policy Voice and Presence
Local actors influence aid and development discourse through evidence-based advocacy, engaging effectively in national dialogues and global policy platforms.
A Transformed, Locally Driven Aid Ecosystem
Long-Term Impact
A transformed aid ecosystem in Somalia where Somali-led institutions sustainably drive inclusive, equitable, and conflict-sensitive development, ensuring that the needs and voices of communities remain central to national recovery and peacebuilding efforts.