Mgr. Jamal Daibes
Apostolic administrator of diocese of Mogadishu and President of Caritas Somalia
After a long journey of service as a priest within the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem since 1988—first in pastoral ministry, then following doctoral studies in Theology in Rome as professor of Theology at the Latin Seminary and at Bethlehem University (2003–2013), later as Rector of the Seminary (2013–2017), parish priest in Ramallah and General Director of Catholic Schools (2017–2021), and head of the local charity Friends of the Holy Land (2006–2021)—I was appointed Patriarchal Vicar in Jordan (2021–2023). Today, I serve as Bishop of Djibouti and Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Mogadishu.
In the mission of the Church, I am convinced that the human person stands at the very heart of its work: human life, human dignity, and care for the most vulnerable, inspired by the words of Jesus: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Mt 25:40).
For decades, the Catholic Church has maintained a presence in Somalia, primarily through Caritas Somalia. As president of Caritas Somalia, I strongly support its mission. Faced with the immense suffering of so many, Caritas focuses especially on women and children—the most vulnerable—through emergency relief and sustainable projects. Our true partners are not only professional collaborators, but above all the women and the poor themselves.
May God bless all who support Caritas Somalia in its mission. Much remains to be done to assist the “forgotten” poor who are in urgent need of help.
Sara Ben Rached
Director of Caritas Somalia
My name is Sara Ben Rached, and I am the Executive Director of Caritas Somalia, based in Djibouti. Somalia has always been part of my journey: I studied it, I chose it, and every day I continue to walk alongside its people.
I hold a degree in Arabic and Islamic Studies, and my thesis focused on Somalia and the social and humanitarian role of the Church, with a special focus on the experience of Caritas Somalia. Since then, this bond has grown into daily commitment, presence in the field, and deep responsibility.
I strongly believe in the dignity of every person and in a humanitarian action rooted in listening, respect, and genuine relationships. Together with local partners, sister Caritas organizations, and donors, we work so that communities can regain strength, hope, and a future. Because even in the most fragile contexts, we truly can make a difference.
Caritas Somalia Organizational chart
