In Somalia, most people are young, with about 80% under 30. It’s important to remember that young people have a big impact on a country’s future. Somali youth have a history of fighting for unity, self-determination, and education. The Somali Youth Club played a key role in bringing together the northern and southern parts of Somalia to become a united republic. Their aspirations and initiatives serve as a motivating historical record for the younger generations in Somalia.
The Somali Youth League (SYL) was the first political party founded in 1943 by a group of young Somali activists who were inspired by the anti-colonial movements that were sweeping across Africa at the time. The Somali Youth Club played a significant role in Somalia’s struggle for independence from colonial rule in the mid-20th century.
The founders of SYL aimed to achieve three main goals: first, liberating the country from colonial rule; second, establishing a Somali government; and third, uniting the five Somali regions. They succeeded in liberating the country and uniting two regions, but unfortunately, their civilian government was overthrown by the military, which dissolved political parties and other democratic instruments while they were pursuing the remaining objectives.
Today, southern Somalia has five regional administrations, while the northern region is absent. Eighty years later, no youth led organizations or parties are continuing the SYL effort. Somali youth lack a clear political identity and face challenges including distorted views of tribalism, religious extremism, and regionalism. Many lack the critical thinking skills to challenge prevailing narratives and are susceptible to conspiracy theories and fatalistic beliefs.
To help Somali youth succeed, it’s crucial to free the youth from these distortions, foster critical and creative thinking based on good values, and revive SYL’s aspirations.
I suggest the government organize and host a national consultation conference that recognises issues affecting Somali youth.
Leaders and groups in Somalia should focus on helping young people grow and avoid getting caught up in tribal conflicts. This will make sure they have better opportunities and can make a positive difference in their communities.