Representing different parts of Somalia as well as several diaspora communities, the participants will bring expertise in various domains of Somali culture: drama, poetry, literature, media, archives and film.

Aware of the role that cultural practices can play in fostering social cohesion, reconciliation and reconstruction processes, UNESCO carried out in 2006 a needs assessment in the field of culture for Somalia.  This effort has also been coordinated with the  Somalia Joint Needs Assessment led by the UN/World Bank.

The donor community in Nairobi will be invited on the final day of the meeting to explore the possibilities of future funding.