In a landmark event, President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi Irro, inaugurated the First Somaliland Children’s Conference today, coinciding with the annual African Children’s Day. The conference, held in Hargeisa, marks a significant milestone as the first-ever gathering of its kind in Somaliland, dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of the nation’s children.
Organized by the Ministry of Employment, Social Affairs, and Family in collaboration with Somaliland’s national institutions and international partners, including UNICEF, the conference brought together children, government leaders, civil society, and global organizations to discuss pressing issues affecting Somaliland’s youth. The event was a vibrant celebration of children’s voices, with a focus on education, healthcare, and protection from harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM).
In his keynote address, President Irro emphasized the critical role children play in Somaliland’s future, stating, “It is impossible for our nation to achieve progress if we do not prioritize the care and well-being of our children.” He highlighted education, healthcare, and nutrition as the foundational pillars for empowering the next generation to fulfill their national responsibilities. “Children are at the heart of our nation. Their voices will be heard, and we will support them in realizing their dreams,” he declared.
The conference featured powerful contributions from child representatives, including Hood Axmed, who called for an end to harmful traditional practices and urged greater protection for children’s rights. The event also saw the launch of Somaliland’s first-ever Child Rights Magazine (First Edition 2025), a significant step in amplifying children’s voices and advancing their rights.
Young performers took the stage with a role-play addressing FGM, delivering a poignant message: “It is my body. Don’t cut it.” This resonated strongly with attendees, reinforcing the conference’s commitment to tackling harmful cultural practices.
The First Somaliland Children’s Conference sets a powerful precedent for prioritizing children’s rights and welfare, aligning with the broader goals of African Children’s Day, which commemorates the 1976 Soweto uprising and advocates for children’s rights across the continent. As Somaliland continues to assert its place on the regional stage, this historic event underscores its commitment to building a brighter future for its youngest citizens.