The challenges facing Somali youth, particularly unemployment, limited support for innovation and difficulties encountered by job seekers, were discussed during Falanqeynta Jimcaha, a weekly programme broadcast by Kaab TV.
The programme examines social issues, challenges affecting young people and other concerns shaping the lives of Somali communities.
This week’s guest was Naaji Adan, a young journalist known for his social media commentary on youth issues and wider societal challenges.
During the discussion, Naaji Adan highlighted the difficulties faced by young Somalis who possess academic qualifications, professional skills and innovative ideas but struggle to find employment or opportunities to develop their abilities.
Naaji Adan said unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Somali youth, affecting both those without higher education and university graduates who struggle to secure jobs related to their qualifications.
He noted that many young people invest years in education with the expectation that their qualifications will help them build stable livelihoods and support their families. However, some spend extended periods searching for work without finding suitable opportunities.
According to Adan, the lack of employment opportunities can lead to frustration, particularly among graduates who feel that their educational achievements have not translated into meaningful career prospects.
He stressed the need for employment opportunities that allow young people to apply their knowledge and skills while contributing to Somalia’s economic and social development.
Adan also highlighted the difficulties facing young Somalis who want to turn their ideas into businesses, services and other productive ventures.
He said many young people have the creativity and skills needed to develop new initiatives but lack financial support, mentorship and practical opportunities to demonstrate their abilities.
He pointed to Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital, as a city where young people should be able to access opportunities in education, employment, entrepreneurship and innovation.
Adan argued that encouraging young people through words alone was insufficient. He called for practical measures that would help them develop their ideas, access funding and establish small businesses capable of creating jobs for themselves and others.
Support for youth-led enterprises, vocational training and partnerships with private businesses could help young people gain experience and turn their skills into sustainable sources of income.
The discussion also examined the obstacles young people encounter when seeking employment. Adan said some applicants hold university degrees and possess relevant skills but struggle to find employers willing to give them an opportunity.
He also drew attention to complaints from women seeking jobs, some of whom say they encounter inappropriate treatment during the recruitment process or in workplace settings.
The concerns highlight that employment challenges extend beyond the availability of vacancies to include fair recruitment practices and equal access to opportunities.
Adan called for a fairer employment environment in which applicants are assessed according to their qualifications, professional abilities and experience, regardless of gender.
Another issue raised during the programme was the link between limited economic opportunities and irregular migration.
Adan said some young Somalis consider leaving the country because they cannot find jobs or see a clear path towards financial stability at home. Some make the decision after spending years pursuing education without securing employment.
He warned that irregular migration can expose young people to serious dangers, particularly when they travel through unsafe routes or rely on illegal smuggling networks.
He called for greater efforts to create jobs and improve economic opportunities within Somalia so that young people can build their futures without feeling compelled to leave the country in search of a livelihood.
Adan emphasised that addressing youth unemployment requires coordinated efforts involving the government, private sector, universities and civil society organisations.
He said young people need access to employment, vocational training, financial assistance for small businesses and opportunities to gain practical work experience.
Mogadishu and other urban centres have young people with diverse skills, business ambitions and ideas that could contribute to local development. However, limited access to capital and employment opportunities can prevent them from realising their potential.
Adan urged relevant institutions to move beyond general promises and introduce practical measures that enable young people to develop their skills, establish businesses and participate more fully in the economy.
He concluded by stressing that job creation, support for innovation and equal employment opportunities are essential to addressing the difficulties facing Somali youth.
Expanding these opportunities, he said, would help young people support themselves and their families while contributing to Somalia’s development.