Today, we celebrate International Youth Day 2024 under the theme “Clicks to progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.” This theme highlights the critical role that young people play in driving digital transformation that carries towards a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. Today is a day to recognize, celebrate, and amplify the voices of the youth, who are not just the leaders of tomorrow but are leading change globally.
Youth in Somalia and around the world are at the forefront of innovation, creativity, and resilience. They bring fresh perspectives, boundless energy, and unwavering commitment to addressing the complex challenges we face. They are at forefront in digital transformation and adapting to the new world shaped by technology, they are actively shaping it. From coding to launching digital start-ups, from using social media to advocate for peace, Somali Youth are proving that they are not just the future, they are the present.
Today’s youth are more connected than ever before, with just a click they access vast amounts of information, connect with peers across the globe, and innovate in ways that previous generations could not have imagined. Empowering youth is at the heart of UNFPA’s mandate. We believe that by investing in young people, we invest in our collective future. We also believe that there cannot be sustainable development for any country, without investment in its largest human resource-the youth. This is why UNFPA, in collaboration with the government and local actors, has provided platforms for young people to exchange ideas, develop vocational skills, digital literacy skills and explore entrepreneurship opportunities. Through our youth-friendly centers across Somalia, we are building the capacity of young people to lead, innovate, and drive positive change in their communities.
As we celebrate International Youth Day, I am pleased to announce that UNFPA will be inaugurating two Youth Centres in Galmudug and Southwest in September 2024 and we are in the process of completing the construction of one more youth center in Hirshabelle state. These spaces will provide young people with the opportunity to learn and receive vocational skills training and digital literacy training. Through the Youth Centres, we aim to empower the youth to become leaders, innovators, and change-makers. This investment in the youth infrastructure is a testament to our commitment to empowering young people and equipping them with the skills needed for a sustainable future.
Last year, UNFPA launched the Somali Youth Fellowship programme to empower Somali youth. Through this initiative, 17 young men and women are receiving training and coaching in leadership, communication, and capacity building in Sexual and reproductive health, gender and population dynamics among other specialties. This fellowship aims to develop the next generation of leaders in Somalia, demonstrating UNFPA’s dedication to fostering the potential and growth of young people in the country.
We must continue to support and invest in our youth, ensuring they have access to sexual and reproductive health, quality education, skills, and opportunities to participate in decision-making processes. By doing so, we empower them to take charge of their future and contribute to the sustainable development of Somalia.
Today also serves as a reminder of the obstacles that still stand before us. The digital divide still exists, and many young people, especially those in rural areas, remain disconnected from the opportunities that the digital world offers. It is our collective responsibilities-as international partners, government, private sector, and civil society- to ensure that these youth are not left behind. Many young people in Somalia continue to face significant barriers to their full potential. Girls and young women are particularly affected and continue to face cultural barriers that hinder access to sexual and reproductive health information and services, including early marriages and female genital mutilation.
Additionally, unemployment and underemployment remain significant challenges, limiting the opportunities for many young people to achieve economic stability and independence. By confronting these barriers and providing skills training and entrepreneurship, we can pave the way for a brighter future for all Somali youth.
As we celebrate the International Youth Day today, I would like to congratulate the Ministry of Youth and Sports for enacting the Somali National Youth Policy. It is essential that we work with all stakeholders to translate the policy into action and create an environment where every young person has the opportunity to thrive.
In closing, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the young people here today and across Somalia. Your dedication, creativity, and resilience inspire us all. Let us reaffirm our commitment to work together to bridge the digital divide, to ensure that every young person has the tools they need to succeed, and to support the incredible innovations that are emerging from the youth in Somalia.
Let’s continue to work together for a brighter, more sustainable future.
Happy International Youth Day!
