Mogadishu, Somalia – A public meeting held in Mogadishu on Monday placed strong emphasis on the pivotal role of youth and women in steering Somalia’s long-delayed constitutional review process toward completion.
The gathering, which brought together community representatives from the Banadir region, highlighted the importance of ensuring broad-based participation to achieve a constitution that reflects the aspirations of all Somalis.
Speakers stressed that youth and women—who make up the majority of the country’s population—must be central to shaping Somalia’s governance framework. Their inclusion was noted as vital to strengthening democratic legitimacy, fostering national unity, and addressing longstanding concerns of marginalization.
Discussions also touched on specific provisions of the draft constitution, including political representation, power-sharing arrangements, and social rights. Calls were made for stronger mechanisms to guarantee women a greater share of political seats and decision-making roles, alongside greater opportunities for young people to influence policy.
The Banadir regional representatives pledged to mobilize local communities to actively contribute to the review process in the coming months. They emphasized that inclusivity is not only a matter of fairness but also a safeguard against instability, as it enhances citizens’ confidence in state institutions.
The constitutional review, which has faced years of delays, is seen as a critical step in consolidating Somalia’s federal system, clarifying powers between central and regional authorities, and laying the foundation for a permanent political settlement. Monday’s meeting reinforced growing momentum to conclude the process with national consensus.
