A Strategy for Somalia’s Protracted Growth”
In the early years of independence, Lee Kuan Yew, founder of Singapore, developed a concept of “deliberate gradualism” to steer the country’s progress. Lee’s method prioritised careful preparation, incremental improvement, and a long-term view in place of rapid fixes. He recognized Singapore’s serious difficulties due to factors such as limited resources, a small population, and a fragile economy and opted for a measured approach to address these issues.
Lee saw the importance of education in his plan. He put considerable resources into educational and vocational training programmes because he believed an educated populace was crucial to Singapore’s progress. As a result, the country now has a labour force that is both highly skilled and competitive on the global stage.
As part of their “deliberate gradualism” approach to economic growth, Lee and his government encouraged the development of vital sectors like manufacturing, banking, and technology. Through a variety of incentives, rules, and other measures, they were able to create a business environment that attracted both domestic and international investors, boosting Singapore’s economy and establishing it as a regional centre for commerce.
We can learn from Singapore’s development strategy by adopting a mindset of “deliberate gradualism.” Somalia, like Singapore, has its share of problems, such as scarce resources, an unstable economy, and a troubled past. However, if our country develops methodically and cautiously, it will be able to overcome these challenges and create a promising future for its people.
We can take advantage of the chance to adopt “deliberate gradualism” in the field of education. Investing in education and vocational training in a country with a growing and young population can produce a skilled labour force, laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth that can help alleviate problems like poverty, poor health, and social unrest.
We can follow the same path to economic development success by adopting the principle of “deliberate gradualism.” we can attract foreign investment to build a robust and diverse economy, provide employment opportunities, raise income levels, and improve the quality of life for our population by creating a conducive business climate and focusing on critical sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.
The potential for our country to develop into a prosperous nation is limitless. Our country has everything it needs to succeed: a rich cultural legacy, a strategic position, and a young, active population. Despite this, we are still plagued by poverty and violence. And We are facing similar challenges. Thus we may take a page from Singapore’s playbook by studying the island nation’s ideology of “deliberate gradualism.”
“Deliberate gradualism” paves the way for deliberate preparation and calculated moves. By adopting a gradual strategy, we can prevent unforeseen repercussions and unsustainable rapid transformation. Instead, We can devote our resources to carefully planned policies and initiatives considering our country’s unique set of difficulties and potentials.
Investment in human capital is a crucial part of our country’s “deliberate gradualism” strategy. Better health and a more capable labour force are two positive outcomes that can be achieved through education, making it a potent tool in the fight against poverty. Our economic growth and development would benefit everyone if more money were invested in education and training programmes for the country’s youth.
Our complex economic development problems defy easy answers. However, a cautious and methodical approach will allow the country to overcome these obstacles and build a brighter future. In order to be successful with this tactic, one must have a long-term outlook, perseverance, and patience. Although the obstacles may seem insurmountable, we can create a skilled labor force if we place a premium on education and training. If we put energy into economic growth, we can build a thriving economy that will benefit our people.
Success requires time, effort, and careful planning; Singapore’s experience with “deliberate gradualism” teaches us this. The payoff, however, is a robust, prosperous nation that can weather any storm. If we follow this strategy and stay the course, we may become a prosperous nation and an example for others. It won’t be easy, but we may realize our full potential with focus and effort.
Mr. Awale Ali Kullane, Somali Ambassador to China
Twitter @Awalekullane