Mogadishu, Somalia — Somalia has concluded a week-long celebration of women’s achievements with the closing ceremony of the Somali Women’s Week and Women’s Business Exhibition in Mogadishu, held as part of events marking International Women’s Day on March 8.
The closing ceremony was officially presided over by Somalia’s Minister of Family and Human Rights Development, Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, who praised Somali women entrepreneurs for showcasing their products and innovations during the exhibition.
Al-Makhzoumi thanked the participants for their contributions to the country’s development, highlighting the growing role of women in strengthening Somalia’s economy and social progress.
The event was attended by several government officials, including Somalia’s Minister of Defence Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, the Turkish ambassador to Somalia Alper Aktaş, officials from the Banaadir regional administration and other invited guests.
Officials toured exhibition stalls where women entrepreneurs displayed a range of locally produced goods and services. They encouraged the businesswomen to expand their ventures and continue contributing to economic growth.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Aktaş commended the Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development for its efforts to support Somali women and expand their access to business opportunities.
Defence Minister Fiqi said Somali women have played a significant role in the country’s development and in supporting security efforts, particularly through community backing for operations against the Al-Shabaab militant group.
During the exhibition, many women entrepreneurs were able to present their products, connect with potential customers and gain wider community support.
Organisers also said that several women benefited from free health services provided during the Women’s Week activities.
The Somali Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development said this year’s Somali Women’s Week was organised on a large scale, aimed at strengthening women’s participation in economic, social and political development across the country.
