Youth Conference in Mogadishu Boosts Role of Young Somalis in Recovery

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Mogadishu on Saturday hosted the Youth Resilience Conference for the first time, a move officials said reflects improved security and a growing focus on the role of young people in national recovery.

Opening the seventh edition of the conference, Deputy Foreign Minister Isaak Mohamud Mursal said holding the event in the capital underscored progress in stabilisation and the increasing participation of youth in development and governance.

He said Somali youth, including those in the diaspora, are playing a critical role through entrepreneurship, innovation and community initiatives, contributing skills, investment and expertise to rebuilding efforts.

Mursal also pointed to recent political reforms, including steps to strengthen state institutions and broaden participation in electoral processes, describing them as part of efforts to build a more inclusive and transparent political system.

The two-day conference brings together young leaders, civil society groups and government officials to discuss challenges facing Somali youth and explore opportunities in areas such as education, health, peacebuilding and climate action.

Organisers said the outcomes are expected to strengthen coordination between government institutions, local communities and the diaspora, and translate youth-led ideas into practical development initiatives.