MOGADISHU, Somalia — UNDP Somalia Resident Representative Christophoros Politis visited the Elman Peace and Human Rights Center in Mogadishu on Sunday, highlighting programmes that combine peacebuilding, rehabilitation and vocational training to support vulnerable young people.
During the visit, Politis observed community-based initiatives designed to help youth develop practical skills, rebuild their livelihoods and take a more active role in their communities.
The visit comes as UNDP and its partners expand efforts to link youth skills development with peacebuilding and economic opportunity. A UNDP programme supported by KOICA is designed to reach 1,000 marginalized young people and women, combining vocational training with psychosocial support and connections to employers. By April 2026, nearly 1,000 participants had completed six-month training courses, while more than 200 had secured employment, according to UNDP.
A separate partnership involving UNDP, KOICA, LG and the Elman Peace Centre is also expanding technical training in areas including electrical equipment servicing, information technology and entrepreneurship, with graduates to be connected to employment opportunities.
The programmes reflect a broader UNDP approach in Somalia that treats youth employment and inclusion as part of efforts to strengthen community resilience and reduce the risk of renewed instability. With about three-quarters of Somalia’s population under 30, expanding access to skills and livelihoods remains a major development priority.
The visit also comes as Somalia faces overlapping security, economic and climate pressures. UNDP has warned that drought, displacement, rising hunger and reductions in aid are placing additional strain on communities, while calling for greater investment in jobs, services and long-term resilience.
UNDP’s new 2026-2030 country programme places further emphasis on jobs, livelihoods, inclusive institutions and resilience, with the agency planning to mobilize about $306.7 million through 2030.
The Elman Peace Centre has therefore become an important example of how skills training can be combined with peacebuilding and community support, particularly for young Somalis whose education and economic opportunities have been disrupted by conflict and displacement.
