Mogadishu, Somalia (SONNA) – In their weekly meeting, the Federal Government of Somalia’s Council of Ministers today formally approved a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Turkey aimed at bolstering cooperation across the crucial sectors of labor, employment, and human resource development. The decision followed the submission of the proposal by the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs.
The ratified agreement outlines a comprehensive framework designed to address key challenges within Somalia’s labor market. Notably, it places a strong emphasis on initiatives geared towards the development of skills among Somali workers. This focus aims to enhance their capabilities and competitiveness, ultimately contributing to a more productive workforce.
A central pillar of the MoU is the commitment to increasing employment opportunities, particularly for the country’s burgeoning youth population. Recognizing the high rates of unemployment prevalent among young Somalis, the agreement seeks to create pathways for gainful engagement in the workforce. By fostering job creation and facilitating access to employment, the partnership between Somalia and Turkey intends to make substantial inroads in reducing overall unemployment figures within the nation.
Beyond these specific objectives, the MoU is underpinned by a broader commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries. This collaborative spirit will foster the exchange of expertise, best practices, and resources, ensuring the effective implementation and long-term sustainability of the agreed-upon initiatives.
While the initial agreement between the labor ministries of Somalia and Turkey was signed in 2016, its implementation had remained pending. Today’s decisive ratification by the Somali Council of Ministers during their weekly meeting marks a significant step forward, officially paving the way for the agreement to be put into action.
The implementation of this MoU is anticipated to have a considerable positive impact on Somalia’s unemployment landscape, with particular attention directed towards providing opportunities for Somali youth. By equipping young individuals with the necessary skills and facilitating their entry into the labor market, the agreement holds the promise of a more prosperous and stable future for Somalia.
The collaborative efforts outlined in this MoU signify a strengthening of ties between Somalia and Turkey and represent a concerted effort to address pressing socio-economic challenges within the Horn of Africa nation.