DJIBOUTI CITY —(HornPost)
Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh has pledged new measures to improve youth employment and support young entrepreneurs.
He made the announcement on Sunday at the People’s Palace during celebrations marking National and African Youth Day.
This year’s event carried the theme, “From Skills to Self-Employment.” It brought together government officials, young entrepreneurs and youth organizations. Participants discussed employment opportunities, economic challenges and the future of young people.
President Guelleh said economic growth must create more jobs and better opportunities for young people.
“Our political responsibility is to ensure that the growth of our economy is more closely linked to jobs and prospects for our young compatriots,” he said.
He identified investment, new economic sectors and vocational training as key priorities. He also called for better links between education and labour market demands.
Furthermore, Guelleh urged young people to embrace entrepreneurship, innovation and self-employment. He said the government would expand access to business financing and support services.
“Entrepreneurship should not be reserved for a few. It must become a path accessible to all who have an ambition, an idea, and the will to make it a reality,” he said.
Djibouti Targets Informal Employment
The president also announced plans to help young people move from informal work into formal and sustainable businesses.
Many young people already earn money through small businesses and independent activities. However, they often lack financing and institutional support.
To address this challenge, the government plans to simplify business registration procedures. It also intends to improve access to loans and introduce incentives for young entrepreneurs.
Guelleh said his government would continue to make youth development a central priority.
He acknowledged that more work remains to improve the living conditions of young people.
“A nation that believes in its youth is a nation that prepares its future,” he said.
Djibouti Recognizes Successful Young Entrepreneurs
The National and African Youth Day celebrations also recognized young people who have achieved financial independence through entrepreneurship.
Three individuals and organizations received awards for their achievements.
Yacoub Ahmed Ali, a former student of the Lycée Industriel et Commercial (LIC), received recognition for his technical skills. He learned air conditioning, plumbing and masonry through practical experience. As a result, he built a loyal customer base and established a sustainable source of income.
Kadiga Burhan, president of the Community Association of the Village of Ardo, also received an award. The association brings together women working in handicrafts.
Its members share a workshop, transportation and a common sales point. This approach helps them reduce costs and increase their savings.
Ahmed Nour Mohamed also received recognition for his determination. After his cafeteria business collapsed, he turned to street vending rather than remain unemployed.
Meanwhile, Mariam Mohamed Ahmed received a special encouragement award. She is rebuilding from her home a business she previously operated in the city. She returned from Egypt after an extended period of medical treatment.
Senior Government Officials Attend the Event
Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed attended the celebrations alongside Minister of Youth and Culture Fardoussa Moussa Egueh and other government officials.
First Lady Kadra Mahamoud Haid also took part in the event. She serves as president of the National Union of Djiboutian Women (UNFD).
The celebrations featured official speeches, discussions, cultural activities and entertainment. They also gave young people an opportunity to exchange ideas and discuss their economic prospects.
Through the event, Djibouti highlighted entrepreneurship and self-employment as important tools for tackling youth unemployment and strengthening economic independence.
HornPost Staff Reporter
Hargeisa, Somaliland
info@hornpost.com
