Somalia, UNFPA Discuss Development Cooperation

MOGADISHU – Somalia’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Hassan Mohamed Ali Nadaara, met on Sunday with the newly appointed UNFPA Representative to Somalia, Judicaël Elidje, to discuss strengthening collaboration supporting the nation’s development objectives.

The talks centered on vital sectors such as healthcare, women and youth empowerment, education, and community development initiatives. Both parties expressed dedication to advancing reproductive healthcare, reinforcing government institutions, backing peacebuilding initiatives, and fostering inclusive progress throughout Somalia.

Strengthening Longstanding UNFPA Partnership

The meeting aligns with the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation with the United Nations Population Fund. The Minister of Planning, Investment and Economic Development recently held a constructive discussion with former UNFPA Representative Dr. Mary Otieno, focusing on aligning development initiatives with Somalia’s National Transformation Plan (NTP) and the UNFPA Country Programme Document.

UNFPA has been a key partner in Somalia’s development across multiple sectors. The agency has worked closely with the Ministry of Youth to advance youth empowerment, with a focus on expanding opportunities in education, skills development, and meaningful participation in nation-building.

Advancing Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality

The discussion on women’s empowerment comes amid significant legislative progress for women’s rights in Somalia. A mandatory 30 percent women’s quota has been integrated into both the Electoral Law and the Political Parties Law, a historic structural move toward ensuring inclusive, nationwide political engagement. New legislation addressing gender-based violence, the federal ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), and the comprehensive Family Law have substantially enhanced legal protections for women.

The Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development has also been actively engaging local women’s organizations. Minister Khadiija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi recently convened a high-level consultative session in Baidoa to examine the current status of women in Southwest State, addressing emerging opportunities and systemic challenges.

Reproductive Health and Healthcare Access

On the healthcare front, UNFPA has been instrumental in improving reproductive health services across Somalia. The agency has worked with the Ministry of Health to enhance healthcare access for women and families, focusing on strengthening reproductive health services nationwide.

Somalia has also launched major health initiatives with international support. The Better Lives Programme, a UK FCDO-supported initiative, is transforming maternal and child health outcomes across the country, focusing on reducing maternal and child mortality and strengthening Somalia’s health systems.

Youth Empowerment and Economic Opportunities

The commitment to youth empowerment aligns with broader national efforts to create economic opportunities for young Somalis. The Federal Government, through the Hormuud Salaam Foundation, has formalized a major partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to accelerate inclusive economic growth, foster entrepreneurship, and open new opportunities for young Somalis. With more than 70 percent of Somalia’s population under 30, these initiatives are critical for the nation’s long-term stability and development.

The meeting between Deputy Minister Nadaara and Representative Elidje reflects the Federal Government’s broader commitment to leveraging international partnerships to achieve its development objectives, with a focus on inclusive progress that benefits all Somalis.