ABOUT HIRAAD
Hiraad Institute is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit public policy research institute based in Jigjiga, Somali Region, Ethiopia.
OUR STORY
For decades, policy decisions affecting the Somali Region have been shaped without sufficient input from the communities they impact most. Hiraad Institute was founded to change that.
The word "Hiraad" means "vision" in Somali — a fitting name for an institute committed to seeing clearly, thinking independently, and working toward a future where policy is informed by evidence and grounded in local realities.
We believe that sustainable development and lasting peace in the Horn of Africa require research institutions that understand the region from the inside — its languages, cultures, histories, and aspirations.
WHO WE ARE
Hiraad Institute is dedicated to advancing evidence-based policymaking in the Somali Region of Ethiopia by producing high-quality, independent research; fostering inclusive policy dialogue; and strengthening the capacity of institutions and communities to engage effectively in governance and development processes.
OUR VISION
Hiraad Institute envisions a Somali Region where public policy is informed by evidence rather than assumption, where communities actively participate in shaping their futures, and where local knowledge contributes meaningfully to national, regional, and global policy debates.
CORE VALUES
01
Hiraad maintains strict non-partisanship and analytical independence. Research outputs are insulated from political pressure, donor influence, and advocacy-driven distortion.
02
All research and policy analysis is grounded in the social, cultural, historical, and economic realities of the Somali Region and the wider Somali context.
03
The Institute prioritizes engagement with marginalized populations, including pastoralists, women, youth, and remote communities, recognizing them as essential contributors to knowledge production.
04
Hiraad operates with openness in its governance, partnerships, and outputs, reinforcing public trust and institutional credibility.
05
Research is designed not only to inform but to influence — through actionable recommendations, stakeholder engagement, and sustained dialogue with decision-makers.
WHO WE SERVE
Policy briefs, technical notes, evidence-based recommendations, expert briefings, and closed-door consultations for federal, regional, and local governance structures.
Co-produced research, advocacy strengthening through evidence, context-sensitive program design, and evaluation of development interventions.
Research on investment climates, regulatory environments, infrastructure, market access, employment, skills development, and value chain growth.
Simplified reports, public forums, panel discussions, community outreach programs, media briefings, and commentary for informed citizens.
OUR APPROACH
Hiraad applies a structured, cyclical, and adaptive policy engagement model designed to ensure that research is grounded in local realities, responsive to national priorities, and capable of generating sustained policy impact.
01
Field engagement with communities, consultations with policymakers, and review of existing policies to identify real needs.
02
Methodologically sound research with qualitative and quantitative methods, integrating historical and political economy perspectives.
03
Rigorous analysis identifying patterns, drivers, and feasible policy options within existing constraints.
04
Testing assumptions through technical workshops, closed-door briefings, roundtables, and community consultations.
05
Policy briefs for decision-makers, advisory support, high-level forums, and public dissemination through media and open events.
06
Training on policy analysis, support for institutional learning systems, development of tools and frameworks, mentorship and peer learning.
07
Tracking uptake of recommendations, evaluating policy outcomes, and documenting lessons for continuous institutional learning.
08
Strategic reflection informed by changing political, social, and environmental conditions to ensure ongoing relevance.
Whether you are a government institution, international organization, academic partner, or civil society group, we welcome collaboration that strengthens evidence-based policymaking in the Horn of Africa.
