The Prime Minster of Somalia, His Excellency, Hamza Abdi Barre recognized the crucial partnership of UNFPA-Somalia and the government on population issues on the occasion of the World Population Day 2023. In a goodwill message tweeted by the Prime Minster and the Office of the Prime Minister, H.E Barre lauded the efforts of UNFPA-Somalia in promoting rights and opportunities for women and girls, while restating the government’s commitment to build, together with UNFPA, a brighter future for all Somalis. He highlighted in his message that “education and empowerment of Somali women and girls are essential for strengthening our country’s social and economic fabric.”

The annual commemoration of World Population Day on every 11th of July is special because presents an opportunity for governments around the world to reflect on concerns affecting the population. For us in UN sexual and reproductive health agency (UNFPA), issues such as family planning, maternal health, sexual and reproductive health, gender inequality and other population related concerns remain central to our objectives and WPD is an occasion to beam an added spotlight to these issues.

Representative of UNFPA-Somalia, Niyi Ojuolape welcomed the Prime Minister’s message and his appreciation of how addressing the gender gaps remains an important step towards a more just, resilient and sustainable world of infinite possibilities. The commemoration takes on an added significance for UNFPA-Somalia as the country office continues extensive preparations to support the Somali government conduct a Population and Housing Census in 2024, its first after 50 years. The country’s population is estimated to have had fourfold increase since 1975, from 4.0 to 15.7 million in 2022, with people under 30 representing two-thirds of the population. To better the lot of the population, it is essential to know their numbers. The census will be a key step in determining not only the size of the population, but their needs and general well-being. “We recognize the need to harness the strength of a population by enabling people to live quality lives to the best of their abilities. Our mantra is anchored on supporting the 10-year-old girl in a world of 8 billion through a variety of means. And this is fundamental to our mandate and how we view population and housing census” Ojuolape stated.

The Representative called attention to current socio-demographic trends which has implications for Somalia. Reliable scientific data indicates that only one in four women across low-and middle income countries are realizing their desired fertility and a woman dies every two minutes due to pregnant and child birth, which can be twice as high in conflict settings. “This reflects to an extent, the situation of Somalia and why we find the Prime Minister’s message quite encouraging. It is important that we enjoy the support and partnership of the government on issues affecting the population, especially women and girls.” he further noted.