Somali Diaspora Conference Closes in Qatar with Call for Increased Role of Diaspora in Country’s Development

GOOBJOOG NEWS | DOHA: The Somali Diaspora Conference came to a close in Doha, Qatar Wednesday evening with a call for more involvement of Somalis across the globe to play an increased role in the country’s development.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the conference focused on several issues including the need for unity among the Somali diaspora and how they can promote Somali nationalism, tapping into the skills, knowledge and expertise of the Somali diaspora to build the country, and strengthening the cooperation between Somalia and Qatar among other topics.

The conference brought together experts in the fields of economics, politics, social affairs, culture, technology, community leaders, clerics, authors and elected representatives.

During the three-day conference, participants hailed the Somali government for organising the forum and lauded efforts to stabilise the country, especially through the ongoing war against Al-Shabaab. The meeting also praised the role of the diaspora in the country’s development and business programs, encouraging them to improve their capacity and cooperation.

Participants also called for the continuation of meetings of the Somali diaspora and the creation of a general umbrella that unites the organizations of the diaspora, having regular meetings that promote development efforts in the diaspora and in the country.

Participants further called for the improvement of immigration services to ease the movement of Somali diaspora between the country and their respective second homes in different parts of the world.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs led by Minister Ahmed Fiqi who attended the conference pledged government support to implement the agreed issued. Prime Minister Hamza Barre opened the conference on Monday.