Shaqodoon Participates in Labor Day Commemoration in Berbera
On May 1st, 2024, International Labor Day was commemorated at the Aloore Hotel in Berbera. The event, organized by the Ministry of Employment, Social Affairs, and Family in partnership with local stakeholders like Shaqodoon Organization, brought together various participants. These included government officials led by the Sahil Governor, Mr. Ali Abdi Abdilahi, as well as employees, NGO workers, and company representatives from organizations such as DP World, NFMC, Horn Petroleum, BIAC, business communities, and other key figures.
Two panel discussions focused on the roles of vocational schools and entrepreneurs in job creation, the availability of internship opportunities, and the challenges faced by women in the workplace.
A total of 80 participants took part in the event, including 32 women and 48 men, representing international and local organizations, prominent companies, business communities, employees, university students, government employees, and the Berbera community. The event showcased projects enhancing local infrastructure and worker welfare.
Inaugurated by the Ministry’s Sahil Regional Coordinator Farhan Mohamed, the event aimed to recognize and motivate workers, particularly those employed in the Sahil region. More than 80 outstanding employees were celebrated for their contributions to development projects and community welfare. Mr. Farhan also addressed challenges faced by workers in their interactions with employers, announcing that the government has established new regulations to protect workers' rights.
Representing Shaqodoon, Mustafe Osman highlighted the event's significance for employees and urged employers, companies, and business leaders to safeguard workers' rights. He observed that many employees are increasingly voicing their concerns about employer indifference on social media. Mustafa emphasized the importance of fully respecting workers' rights, constructively addressing grievances, and creating an employee-friendly environment that fosters productivity, creativity, and collaboration.
He also underscored Shaqodoon's significant role in Somaliland through its comprehensive skills training programs and the shaqo.com platform, which connects job seekers with potential employers. During his speech, Mustafe reiterated the organization's commitment to continuous skill development and strong market linkages to empower local employees to secure in-demand job opportunities. He stated, “Our initiatives contribute significantly to reducing the skills gap and enhancing the employability of youth, thus fostering economic growth and stability in the region.”
Sahil Governor Mr. Ali Abdi Abdilahi echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of protecting and upholding employees' rights and dignity through supportive mechanisms. He also touched on the influx of foreign immigrants entering the workforce and how this has exacerbated unemployment within the country. “Foreign workers bring valuable in-demand skills that have a significant impact on the market. However, local employees should strive to improve their skills in order to seize the same opportunities, enhance their livelihoods, and contribute to our national economy,” he said.
Mr. Ali Abdi Abdilahi emphasized the importance of enhancing employment conditions, striving for recent successes to yield sustainable, long-term benefits for the workforce. The Governor also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the private sector, recognizing its crucial role in enhancing local services and development. He went on to endorse strategic collaborations with private sector partners to facilitate investments that promote job creation and foster community development.
Shaqodoon Organization plays a vital role in the Sahil region by providing both vocational training and entrepreneurship education. The recent inauguration of the youth center in Berbera exemplifies Shaqodoon's dedication to empowering local talent and creating a supportive environment where youth can thrive. By actively collaborating with partners and local businesses, we remain committed to addressing workforce challenges and fostering sustainable and inclusive economic development in the region.