PM Barre Calls for Greater Role of Women in Nation-Building and Elections

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Federal Government of Somalia Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has called for the full inclusion of women in the country’s political and security transformation, emphasizing their central role in national development, elections, reconciliation, and constitutional reform.

Speaking during a consultative forum in Mogadishu that brought together hundreds of women from across the capital, the Prime Minister praised Somali women for their longstanding contributions to peace building and national unity, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening their political and administrative representation.

“It is imperative that we liberate our country from the Al-Shabaab threat if we are to realize the Somalia we envision,” Barre said. “Somali women are at the heart of that vision. Their patriotism and resilience are vital to achieving our long-term national goals.”

The Prime Minister pledged to expand employment opportunities for women and protect their right to participate fully in public life, including the right to vote and run for office.

The gathering, held under the theme “Defense and Elections”, was organized by the Somali Women’s Center for Security and Peace.

It was attended by senior government officials, including the Minister of Women and Human Rights Development and the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, along with members of parliament and prominent women leaders from civil society, academia, and business.

The forum comes as Somalia intensifies its political transition and prepares for future electoral reforms, with leaders reiterating the importance of inclusivity and gender equity in shaping the country’s future.