On Sunday, November 1, 2026, Djibouti's President Ismail Omar Guelleh presided over the celebration of National and African Youth Day at the People's Palace. The event was attended by First Lady Khadiga Mahamoud Haid, Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, and several government officials, including Minister of Youth and Culture Firdowsa Moussa Ayeh. The celebration brought together youth delegations from various regions and municipalities.
The event's theme this year was "From Skills to Self-Employment," highlighting the government's efforts to promote youth participation in national development and empower them economically and socially. President Guelleh emphasized the government's commitment to supporting youth initiatives and creating opportunities for them to turn their ideas into productive and sustainable projects.
In his speech, President Guelleh stressed the importance of converting economic growth into real job opportunities and promising future prospects for young people. He called for continued investment attraction, economic diversification, and alignment of training programs with labor market requirements. The President also highlighted the need to promote entrepreneurship and provide support for young entrepreneurs.
The President recognized the importance of integrating young people working in the informal sector into the organized economy. He proposed simplifying administrative procedures, facilitating access to financing, and adopting incentive measures to help them develop their activities and transform them into sustainable economic institutions.
During the celebration, three successful young models were honored for achieving financial independence and developing their professional activities through self-reliance and perseverance. The awardees included Yakob Ahmed Ali, Khadija Borhan, and Ahmed Noor Mohamed, who received recognition for their initiatives and contributions to the country's economic development.
The event also featured a diverse program, including speeches, workshops, and discussions, as well as various activities that reflected the importance of investing in youth and promoting their role in driving economic and social development. The celebration demonstrated the government's commitment to making youth a key partner in national development.
The National and African Youth Day celebration in Djibouti highlights the country's efforts to support its youth and provide them with opportunities for growth and development. The government's initiatives aim to empower young people economically and socially, and to promote entrepreneurship and self-employment.
Key points
- President Ismail Omar Guelleh emphasizes government's commitment to supporting youth initiatives and creating opportunities for them to turn their ideas into productive and sustainable projects.
