Mogadishu, 15 May 2014(GNA)-Speaking at a Somali Youth Day celebration this evening, H.E. The President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, called on the young people of Somalia to use their energy, ambition and commitment to build a better Somalia.
Referencing the influence of the Somali Youth League, who in the 1950s were instrumental in ensuring that Somalia’s struggle for independence was successful, H.E. The President said, “Today, on the occasion of Somalia Youth Day, it is good that we acknowledge our history and those men and women who, though not very old, or very experienced, used their courage and energy to pave the way to build the nation we have today.”
H.E. The President described his pride in Somalia’s young people, saying that, “It is truly remarkable to see our youth, who have survived the destructive power of war, study, work and build up their lives against all odds.” He continued that he was encouraged to see young Somalis from the diaspora return to take part in rebuilding Somalia, stating, “What connects our young people- no matter where they are from or where they have lived till now- is their belief in this nation; they share more than a culture and a language, they share the same hopes and aspirations.”
More than 70% of Somalia’s population is under the age of thirty. H.E. The President acknowledged that many challenges remain for Somali youth, but he encouraged them to participate in creating the future they want, and to work with their elected representatives to do so.
“We must work together if we want the best for each other. As a government, we have responsibilities to you, and as young citizens, you have responsibilities to the government: you must participate, you must challenge what you want changed, you must seek for truth and demand hard work and results from the people you have elected to represent you,” said H.E. The President.
H.E. The President urged the crowd celebrating Somali Youth Day to engage with change, create and grab opportunities and play their part in determining the Somalia of the future.
Prime Minster of the Somalia
On the other hand The Prime Minster of the Somali Federal Government His Excellency Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed went to a major celebration to mark the 71st anniversary of the formation of the freedom-seeking organization, the Somali Youth League (SYL) in the yesterday Thursdays’ .
The event was organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and was held in Mogadishu’s Konis Stadium.
During the well-attended celebration, youth groups presented different cultural performances including traditional dances and poetry to celebrate the place of youth in society. One of the previous members of SYL spoke about the history of the group and their role in Somalia’s quest for independence.
H.E Prime Minister Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed described the 71st anniversary of the formation of SYL as an event that signifies the history of the Somali nation and called on the Somali youth to emulate the youth of SYL who left a golden mark on the history of Somalia. He said his government will prioritize youth development since youth are the most vital part of society.
H.E. Prime Minister Ahmed said “I am happy to celebrate this wonderful event with the Somali people and the youth of Somalia wherever they may be. On this day of May 15, 13 young people came together 71 years ago to lay the foundation for the freedom of our country, and it is a symbol of resilience and national pride.
“I urge all our youth to carry with them that spirit and to be part of our nation’s reconstruction and development. My government is committed to empowering the youth and ensuring they take their rightful place in our society.”
In addition to the Konis Stadium event, the Prime Minister joined a youth celebration taking place in Hiran Province by telephone and congratulated the youth of Hiran on the occasion while encouraging them to stay committed to the efforts to rebuild their communities.
Later in the day, the Prime Minister attended a youth roundtable and engaged in fruitful discussions with youth.