Saturday May 2, 2026
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali workers marked International Labour Day on Saturday in Mogadishu, bringing together more than 1,000 participants in a show of solidarity and collective action.
The event was organised by the Federation of Somali Trade Unions with support from the International Labour Organization, as part of the National Conference on Employment-Intensive Investment and Decent Work. It was attended by senior government officials, labour leaders, and development partners.
FESTU Secretary General Omar Faruk Osman said unemployment, particularly among youth remains a major challenge, calling for targeted investment in job creation 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, adding that the conference aims to promote employment-intensive strategies that generate sustainable and inclusive jobs.
FESTU President Ahmed Osman Said reaffirmed the union’s commitment to defending workers’ rights, describing work as a fundamental source of dignity. He emphasized the need to protect workers from exploitation and strengthen trade union freedoms.
Representatives from the Office of the Prime Minister and the ILO also underscored the importance of social dialogue, skills development, and policies that support inclusive labour markets.
The event allowed workers to understand and advocate for employment-intensive investment approaches within the Decent Work Agenda, enhancing their contributions to national employment and development discussions.
The conference concluded with a renewed commitment from trade unions, government institutions, and partners to advance decent work, strengthen labour protections, and promote sustainable job creation across Somalia.
