PM Barre Urges Youth to Reject Tribalism, Embrace Merit and Innovation

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on Wednesday delivered a pointed message to the country’s young generation, urging them to break away from tribal divisions, lead with integrity and drive a new era of innovation and reform.

Speaking at the opening of the 6th Somali Youth Leadership and Innovation Summit, Barre said Somalia’s progress now hinges on the choices and mindset of its young population, the largest demographic force in the country.

PM Barre announced that his government is finalising a sweeping overhaul of public-sector recruitment, shifting all government jobs to a competitive and merit-based system. He said the reform would dismantle long-standing patronage networks and create fair opportunities for qualified youth, describing it as a “turning point” for public service.

He told the gathering that Somali youth must aim higher, cultivate new ideas and take ownership of the country’s development. “If you want to lead, you must be a good example,” he said, calling on young people to push innovation, invest in education and challenge outdated ways of thinking.

The prime minister warned that tribalism remains one of the biggest obstacles to national progress, urging the youth to reject divisive politics and instead build unity across communities. He said nations rise when their young people dare to think differently and believe in their collective future.

PM Barre closed his remarks with a call for active political participation, saying Somalia’s next chapter will be shaped by the extent to which its youth engage in elections and democratic processes.