The Minister of Planning, Investment and International Cooperation of Jubbaland, Abdirahman Abdi Mohamed, has called for a shift toward skills-based development and economic self-reliance, as he addressed a graduation ceremony for young people trained in vocational crafts.
Speaking during the event, the minister said the global landscape is undergoing significant transformation, with countries increasingly prioritizing production, technical expertise, and innovation over long-standing dependence on foreign aid. He stressed that the future belongs to nations that invest in practical skills and sustainable economic systems.
“The world is moving towards production and technical capability,” he said. “Dependence on international aid is declining, and countries must now build their own strength through knowledge and hard work.”
He emphasized that Somali youth are central to the country’s development, describing them as the backbone of national progress. The minister urged graduates and young people across the country to strengthen their vocational skills and practical knowledge, noting that such capabilities are essential for rebuilding Somalia’s economy and ensuring long-term stability.
Abdirahman also pointed to a broader shift in global attitudes toward Africa, stating that international partners are growing weary of providing continuous aid without seeing tangible economic output. He said discussions at various international forums involving African nations and development partners have highlighted a shared expectation that African countries must become more productive and self-sufficient.
“The message is clear: Africa must stand on its own feet,” he noted. “We must focus on production, strengthen our economies, and deliver visible progress.”
He added that Somalia, as part of the African continent, must align itself with these changes by adopting policies that promote economic growth, local production, and innovation in order to remain competitive in an evolving global economy.
The minister also addressed domestic political matters, describing the adoption of the federal system in Somalia as a historic and positive step. He said federalism has laid a foundation for governance and development, and that existing challenges can be overcome through unity, cooperation, and respect for the system.
However, he expressed concern over what he described as setbacks in political progress, accusing Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of undermining the country’s constitution and weakening gains achieved in recent years.
In his concluding remarks, Abdirahman called on the people of Jubbaland to strengthen their unity and resilience, urging them to work together toward shared goals of development and stability.
“Our strength lies in unity and self-reliance,” he said. “We must come together, support one another, and build a better future for our people.”
The ceremony celebrated young graduates equipped with vocational skills, who are expected to play a vital role in advancing local industries and contributing to Somalia’s economic transformation.
