The U.S. Agency for International Development’s East Africa Regional Mission, with the Education Development Center, have begun a two-day meeting in Djibouti focused on practical solutions for increasing youth employment throughout all regions of Somalia. The meeting was opened by the U.S. Ambassador to Djibouti, James C. Swan, the Djiboutian Ambassador to Somalia, Tayib Doubad, and the Chief Executive Officer of Dahabshiil Bank, Mohamed Ousman Nur, who welcomed 70 participants, the majority of whom represent the private sector in Somaliland, Puntland and south central Somalia.

During the meeting, the USAID EDC youth livelihood program known as Shaqodoon in Somali, or “Job Seeker,” will be discussed as one model that has successfully identified quick-impact, market driven employment opportunities. Since 2008 and working with Somali private enterprises more than 2,275 Somali youth of whom 39% are female, have been provided with a livelihood opportunity including mentoring and skill building. Representatives from Business Advisory Councils established by Shaqodoon in seven locations in Somalia also are attending this meeting. They provide valuable advice about market demands and the kinds of skills Somali youth need to find work.

Youth throughout the world should be able to follow their dreams which often include having a challenging yet productive livelihood.

U.S. Ambassador Swan reflected that one way to strengthen the stability of Somalia is by giving young people hope for the future. He welcomed broad participation in the effort of putting youth to work in Somalia noting, “The U.S. Government’s dual track Somalia strategy allows for continued commitment to the Djibouti Peace Process and the Transitional Federal Government while broadening engagement with regional and local administrations, civil society groups, clan leaders, and those who share America’s goals of bringing peace, stability and prosperity to Somalia.”

During the meeting two Somali youth who have recently completed a skills building program with Shaqodoon will talk about their experiences and aspirations.

Ambassador Swan said he was pleased to see representative from several regions in Somalia, and concluded that he looked forward to hearing about the recommendations that come out of these deliberations.