International Labour Day event highlights Somalia’s commitment to decent work and inclusive job creation
The event provided a platform to discuss social dialogue, skills development and employment-intensive investment approaches as key drivers of sustainable livelihoods, local economic development and inclusive labour markets in Somalia.
7 May 2026
Mogadishu, Somalia (ILO News) — More than 1,000 workers, trade union representatives, government officials and development partners gathered in Mogadishu on 2 May to mark International Labour Day and reaffirm their commitment to decent work and inclusive job creation in Somalia.
Organized by the Federation of Somali Trade Unions (FESTU) with support from the International Labour Organization (ILO), the event formed part of the National Conference on Employment-Intensive Investment and Decent Work, held with support from ILO's Employment-Intensive Investment Programme. It provided an opportunity to discuss practical solutions to promote sustainable employment and inclusive economic recovery amid rising unemployment, particularly among young people, and recurring climate-related challenges affecting livelihoods.
During the event, the Acting Minister of Labour and Social Affairs of the Federal Government of Somalia, Hon. Amina Hussein Ali, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening the implementation of labour legislation in line with international labour standards and advancing policies that support decent work and expanded employment opportunities. She also recognized the important role of workers’ organizations affiliated with FESTU in promoting effective social dialogue and collaboration with government and employers to advance job creation, skills development and the protection of workers’ rights.
FESTU Secretary General Omar Faruk Osman emphasized the urgent need to address unemployment through targeted investments and inclusive economic policies. “Workers must be at the centre of national development, and their voices must be reflected in decision-making processes,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of employment-intensive investment approaches as a pathway to decent work and sustainable livelihoods, calling for stronger collaboration among workers’ organizations, government institutions and development partners.
FESTU President Ahmed Osman Said reaffirmed the trade union movement’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and promoting decent work, stressing the importance of safeguarding workers from exploitation and strengthening trade union freedoms.
Representatives from the Office of the Prime Minister and the ILO underscored the importance of social dialogue, skills development and employment-intensive investment approaches in promoting productive employment and inclusive labour markets.
The discussions highlighted the central role of workers in sustainable development and reinforced the importance of promoting and protecting fundamental principles and rights at work, including freedom of association, dignity and equality. With the participation of the ILO’s Employment-Intensive Investment Programme, the event also provided an opportunity to raise awareness among workers and stakeholders about employment-intensive investment approaches and their contribution to the Decent Work Agenda, including through sustainable job creation, local economic development and improved livelihoods.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from trade unions, government institutions and development partners to continue working together to advance decent work, strengthen labour protections and promote sustainable employment opportunities across Somalia.
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