Somalia, Qatar Launch Economic Empowerment Drive to Support Youth and Low-Income Families

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia and Qatar have launched a large-scale economic empowerment program aimed at creating sustainable livelihoods for Somali youth and low-income families, in a move meant to spur economic resilience and reduce aid dependency.

The initiative was inaugurated Tuesday in Mogadishu during a ceremony attended by senior Somali officials and the Qatari diplomatic mission, including Somalia’s Minister of Labour and Social Affairs Yusuf Mohamed Adam, Qatar’s Ambassador to Somalia Dr. Abdullah bin Salem Al Nuaimi, and representatives of Qatar Charity, the program’s lead implementing partner.

“This project marks a transition from humanitarian assistance to long-term economic development,” said Minister Yusuf Mohamed Adam. “It offers Somali youth the tools and opportunities to build stable livelihoods and contribute to national recovery.”

The first phase of the program includes the distribution of 130 cargo tricycles and 130 motorized passenger tuk-tuks to young entrepreneurs, as well as 100 electric flour milling machines to support small-scale businesses and agricultural value chains.

The project is expected to strengthen grassroots economic activity, promote job creation, and align with the Federal Government’s broader social development agenda.

“This initiative supports employment, boosts local enterprise, and offers a new beginning for many Somali families,” said Abdulaziz Osman Mohamed, Deputy for Social Affairs of Banadir Region.

Qatar’s Ambassador to Somalia described the program as a reflection of strong bilateral ties and a “shared commitment to development and stability.”

Qatar Charity Somalia Director Abdelfattah Adam said the program prioritizes “practical, impactful solutions that help young people achieve self-reliance and economic independence.”

The project forms part of Qatar Charity’s broader engagement in Somalia, which spans education, healthcare, water, and livelihoods, with an emphasis on building resilient, self-sufficient communities across the country.