Garowe – Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni has issued a rare and candid admission of failure over the mass exodus of Somali youth, acknowledging that his administration—and Somalia’s leadership at large—has failed to address their plight.
Speaking at the 56th session of the Puntland Parliament, Deni said, “We shattered their ambition, destroyed their hope, buried their future. They have every right to risk their lives at sea. We have failed our responsibility.”
His remarks come amid a sharp rise in young Somalis attempting perilous journeys across the Mediterranean in search of a better life. Dozens have died in recent months, driven by deepening poverty, political uncertainty, and a lack of opportunity at home.
The statement marks a significant shift in tone from regional leaders, many of whom have been criticized for downplaying the migration crisis. It also highlights the urgency for Somalia’s federal and state governments to devise comprehensive responses to the country’s youth challenges.