AMISOM partners with grassroot organisations to encourage Hiiraan youth to participate in Somalia’s political processes
The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) has held a training workshop for youth in Belet Weyne, Hiiraan region, to encourage them to play an active role in politics and be part of the decision making processes in their country.
Save Somali Youth Organization (SASOYO) organized the training, with support from AMISOM gender unit. It was one of the five events organised in the region and aimed at tackling apathy among young people, towards politics.
It is envisaged that the youth engagements will encourage an increase in the number of young people participating in politics and taking up leadership positions.
“If the youth have common objectives and unite, they can cause change in security, the economy and politics. Initially, we had no idea about how we can do this, but AMISOM has given us a chance to visit the regions, districts and villages, to engage the youth,” Ms. Naima Adan Elmi, the Chairperson of Save Somali Youth Organization said.
Discussions at the youth workshop focused on the challenges facing the youth and possible solutions to the problems. Participants cited unemployment as a key factor influencing youth enrolment in criminal gangs.
Sahra Abdi Haji from SASOYO said her organization had organized similar workshops in Kismaayo and Baidoa.
Another participant, Khalid Ahmad Mohamed said, “Youth can improve peace and security in our country, but only if given a chance by our security agencies, such as the police and the intelligence institutions.”
