Mogadishu, Somalia – Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre delivered an important message to Somalia’s young generation on Wednesday, encouraging them to move beyond tribal affiliations, lead with integrity, and foster a new era of innovation and reform.
Addressing the opening of the 6th Somali Youth Leadership and Innovation Summit in Mogadishu, PM Barre emphasized that Somalia’s advancement now depends on the decisions and perspective of its young population, which represents the largest demographic in the nation.
The Prime Minister revealed that his administration is completing comprehensive changes to public-sector hiring, transitioning all government positions to a competitive system based on merit. He stated that this reform would eliminate traditional patronage networks and establish equal opportunities for qualified youth, characterizing it as a “turning point” for public service.
Barre advised the audience that Somali youth should set higher aspirations, develop fresh concepts, and assume responsibility for the nation’s development.
“Those who aspire to lead must serve as positive role models,” he remarked, urging young people to promote innovation, prioritize education, and question conventional thinking.
The Prime Minister identified tribalism as one of the most significant barriers to national advancement, appealing to the youth to reject polarizing politics and instead cultivate unity among different communities. He noted that nations advance when their young people courageously embrace new ideas and have faith in their shared future.
Concluding his speech, Barre encouraged active political involvement, stating that Somalia’s future trajectory will be determined by how actively its youth participate in electoral and democratic processes.
