Somaliland Celebrates its Youth National Day

On Saturday 20th February Somaliland has celebrating its national youth day. The vice president of Somaliland Abdirahman Saylici has attended the commemoration ceremony of the youth day.

He delivered a statement where he emphasized on the importance of holistic approach in promoting youth societal participation. He also noted that the youth are agents of change making it one of the key aspects of the youth policy of Somaliland government.

Somaliland Youth are estimated at about 70%, making them the largest population in the country. However they are surrounded by so many challenges such as high rates of poverty, unemployment leading to dependency on external sources such as remittances, lack of youth-friendly centers; effects of conflict and gender-based violence; and alienation from positive interactions with adults and the rest of society.

The Commemoration featured strong commitments to the youth of Somaliland. Pledges have been made to strengthen youth’s participation in decision making of the country. This also Bridges gaps between youth and creating more employment opportunities for the young people.

The Somaliland National Youth Day previously known as UFFO Day, originated from the historical Stone-throwing events (Dhagaxtuur) against the former regime of Somalia Mohamed Said Barre which took place in 1982 and this was intended to honor youth from the past, present and the future generations in the country.