On November 2, 2026, President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti delivered a speech on the National and African Youth Day, emphasizing the crucial role of the youth in the country's progress and economic transformation. He expressed his confidence in the youth and their active participation in shaping the nation's future. The President acknowledged the challenges faced by young people, including limited access to employment opportunities despite their qualifications.
President Guelleh highlighted the significant investments made by the government in education, including the development of school and university infrastructure. He also mentioned the reinforcement of training programs and initiatives aimed at improving job prospects for young Djiboutians. However, he acknowledged that more work needs to be done to address the concerns of young people, particularly in terms of employment and autonomy.
The President stressed that the youth should not be seen as a burden on the nation but rather as a driving force for progress and economic transformation. He emphasized the need for the government to create an environment that fosters entrepreneurship and job creation, allowing young people to contribute to the country's development. President Guelleh encouraged young Djiboutians to believe in their abilities and take the initiative to start their own businesses.
To support young entrepreneurs, the government plans to strengthen financing mechanisms, provide accompaniment, and offer incentives. President Guelleh also emphasized the need to address the issue of precarious employment and the predominance of informal activities. The goal is to enable young people who are already working to transition to structured and sustainable businesses.
The President acknowledged the concerns of young people, including their legitimate expectations for autonomy and dignity. He emphasized that the government's responsibility is to provide concrete and lasting solutions to these concerns. President Guelleh expressed his confidence in the creativity, adaptability, and determination of young Djiboutians.
On this National and African Youth Day, President Guelleh called on young people to contribute to the edification of their country, striving for a more prosperous, solidary, and confident nation. He expressed his gratitude for their attention and reaffirmed his commitment to working towards the betterment of young people's lives.
The celebration of National and African Youth Day in Djibouti serves as a reminder of the importance of youth empowerment in the country's development. The government's efforts to invest in education, promote entrepreneurship, and create job opportunities demonstrate its commitment to harnessing the potential of young people. As Djibouti continues to navigate its development journey, the role of the youth will undoubtedly be crucial in shaping the country's future.
Key points
- President Ismail Omar Guelleh emphasizes the importance of youth empowerment for Djibouti's national progress and economic transformation.
