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Somalia, 20 October 2025 — Over 1,000 Somali youth have graduated from the Baxnaano Inclusive Economy Program, a government-led initiative designed to reduce youth unemployment and promote economic self-sufficiency.
The graduation ceremony held in Mogadishu on Sunday was attended by government officials, program partners, and civil society representatives.
The program, piloted in Banaadir region, is implemented through the Buruuj Technical Training Institute and coordinated via Economic Inclusion Centers, which facilitate registration, orientation, mentorship, and technical courses. The Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MoLSA) oversees the initiative to ensure quality compliance with national standards.
Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Yusuf Mohamed, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to young people.
"We are committed to eradicating the hopelessness faced by Somali youth, creating hope for them to live by, preventing the need for migration, and building a future in their own homes. These 1,000 graduates are just the beginning; over the next year, we aim to expand this program to reach more than 40,000 young Somalis nationwide."
Beneficiaries praised the programme for providing life-changing opportunities. Ishwaaq Mohamed Mohamud said:
"We are grateful for the chance to gain knowledge and practical skills, to exchange experiences, and to learn from our instructors."
The Head of Operations at Buruuj, Abdiraxman Elmi Abdi, highlighted the operational success of the pilot:
"We are delighted to be partners in this successful program, from which 1,000 youth have graduated."
The initial cohort included 100 students trained in technical and vocational skills and 900 focused on business and entrepreneurial skills, equipping them to establish small enterprises or participate in market activities. Of the 1,000 youth, 600 were women and 400 men, with opportunities to work with private companies and contribute to local economic development.
Fardowsa Axmed Abdullahi, Manager of Baxnaano, said:
"The youth who have benefited from the program today, we have fulfilled our duty and responsibility; now the responsibility rests on you."
Officials emphasized that Baxnaano is part of broader efforts to reduce poverty, increase youth participation, strengthen social stability, and expand youth participation in Somalia’s growing economy.