FTL Somalia

Somalia Opens Bids for Major Vocational Skills Project Benefiting 50,000 Youth

Mogadishu, Somalia – The Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education has launched the bidding process for the skills component of the Rajo Kaaba Project, a large-scale programme aimed at empowering tens of thousands of young Somalis with market-ready skills.

During Monday’s Bid Opening Ceremony in Mogadishu, ministry officials confirmed that the initiative will benefit between 40,000 and 50,000 youth, girls, and women across Galmudug, HirShabelle, Southwest, Jubbaland, and the Banadir Regional Administration (BRA).

The programme focuses on providing vocational training that aligns with local labour market demands, with the goal of increasing employment and self-reliance.

The Rajo Kaaba Project is part of the government’s broader strategy to tackle youth unemployment, a long-standing challenge in Somalia. Officials emphasised that vocational skills in trades such as construction, tailoring, agriculture, ICT, and small-scale manufacturing will form the backbone of the training modules.

Speaking at the event, ministry representatives highlighted the importance of transparent procurement in ensuring high-quality service delivery.

“This process is not just about awarding contracts—it’s about investing in the future of our youth and giving them the tools to succeed in a competitive economy,” an official stated.

The project is expected to have a significant social and economic impact, particularly in regions affected by conflict and limited job opportunities. Training will be complemented by mentorship, business development support, and potential job placement partnerships with local and international employers.

Once the evaluation phase is complete, selected implementing partners will begin rolling out training programmes in targeted regions later this year.