MOGADISHU, Somalia, [SMN] – A top UN official said Sunday that the Somali youth needed to be constructively engaged and given better opportunities that can help in shaping their future.
In his speech at a 3-day Youth Conference in Mogadishu, Niyi Ojuolape, the UNFPA Representative for Somalia has called for recognition of the immense potential within the Somali youth.
“They [youth] are the driving force behind sustainable development, humanitarian action, and sustaining peace,” added Ojuolape.
He announced UNFPA will leave no stone unturned to ensure that the young people get the chances they deserve to exercise leadership and help address the challenges they face in Somalia.
In addition, UNFPA envoy welcomed the National Youth conference which brought together senior government ministers, hundreds of youths and distinguished guests as a “catalyst” for change.
According to recent statistics, unemployment is a key factor contributing to migration, displacement, violence, and recruitment in militias and extremist groups in Somalia.
“With an estimated 45% of the Somali population under the age of 35, it is crucial that we address the challenges they endure for the development and prosperity of Somalia,” he stated.
Continuing, he pointed out that UNFPA’s office in Somalia has over the past year implemented several key strategies to empower and support young people and remains committed to improving the quality of life and their well-being, particularly those belonging to vulnerable populations.
Among its many initiatives, the establishment of youth friendly centres is noteworthy. The centers play a vital role in enabling young individuals to gain necessary qualifications, employability skills, and contribute to their communities, even in challenging settings like IDP camps and humanitarian environments.
Finally, Ojuolape congratulated the ministry of youth and sports for finalizing the national youth policy which was recently approved by the council of the ministers, Federal Government of Somalia.
