MOGADISHU, Somalia – H.E. Yusuf Mohamed Aden, the Federal Minister of Labour and Social Affairs of Somalia, held a high-level meeting in Riyadh on Monday with H.E. Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Abuthnain, the Deputy Minister of Human Resources and Social Development of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
This meeting formed part of Minister Yusuf’s official working visit to Saudi Arabia and focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in the areas of social development, labour mobility, and job creation.
The discussions are part of broader efforts by the Somali government to secure overseas employment opportunities and to establish international partnerships that support the country’s developmental goals.
At the heart of the meeting was the prompt implementation of a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Somalia and Saudi Arabia. The agreement aims to streamline legal labour migration and facilitate access to formal employment opportunities for Somali workers.
Both ministers agreed to expedite the implementation of this MoU, emphasizing the need to establish safe, structured, and dignified pathways for employment. The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of Somali job seekers by reducing youth unemployment and enhancing workforce skills, while connecting Somali labour to global job markets.
“We are fully committed to ensuring that our youth and professionals gain access to lawful and productive employment opportunities,” said Minister Yusuf. “This agreement with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia marks a major step forward in addressing unemployment and creating sustainable livelihoods.”
A Long-Term Vision for Labour Markets
Minister Yusuf highlighted that the Ministry is pursuing a long-term strategy focused on job creation, workforce development, and inclusive economic participation through international cooperation. He stressed that bilateral labour partnerships are central to the country’s success in social development.
“Building strategic labour partnerships goes beyond sending workers abroad,” he noted. “It’s about nurturing a skilled workforce ready for the future — an integral part of our nation’s progress. We are investing in human capital and collaborating with trusted international partners to build a resilient labour ecosystem that serves all Somali citizens.”
Deputy Minister Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Abuthnain welcomed the new partnership, expressing the Kingdom’s readiness to work closely with Somalia to implement the employment agreement effectively.
He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting efforts to enhance orderly labour migration, protect workers’ rights, and advance social development outcomes.
Dr. Abuthnain also underscored the importance of cooperation in workforce development, skills alignment, and access to employment markets, noting that such efforts are mutually beneficial.
This elevated partnership reflects Somalia’s tangible progress in building regional and international cooperation aimed at expanding employment opportunities, improving labour mobility governance, and fostering sustainable national growth.
The Somali Ministry of Labour is expected to continue similar engagements with other countries to widen overseas employment avenues.
The Federal Government of Somalia also announced plans to implement training programmes and regulatory frameworks to prepare outbound workers — ensuring their safety, welfare, and successful integration into their new environments.
“This is not just about job creation,” said Minister Yusuf. “It’s about restoring dignity, generating hope, and unlocking the potential of our youth.”
HORN LIFE
