By Editorial Team
March 22, 2026 – Youth unemployment has emerged as a major concern in Puntland, prompting growing calls for urgent action to create sustainable opportunities for the region’s expanding young population.
As discussions on economic growth and recovery intensify, policymakers, business leaders and development stakeholders are increasingly turning their attention to young people as a key force in shaping Puntland’s future. Many believe that investing in youth will be critical to securing long-term prosperity and social stability.
The Puntland Democratic Party (PDP) has now raised concern over rising youth unemployment, describing it as one of the region’s most pressing socio-economic challenges.
Speaking on the issue, Puntland Democratic Party spokesperson Deeq Hassan Mohamed, popularly known as Deeq Darajo, described young people as Puntland’s greatest asset and a driving force for future development.
He emphasized the need for greater investment in education, vocational training and entrepreneurship programmes to equip young people with skills needed in a fast-changing economy.
According to Deeq, unemployment is not only an economic challenge but also a social issue with far-reaching consequences if left unresolved. He noted that meaningful economic inclusion is essential in keeping young people engaged in productive activities and enabling them to contribute positively to community development and civic life.
He further stressed that creating opportunities for young people should remain a top priority for both public and private sector actors. A coordinated approach, he said, is necessary to stimulate economic growth and generate jobs across different sectors.
The PDP has also reiterated its support for policies aimed at strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises, promoting youth-led innovation and expanding private sector participation. The party believes that empowering entrepreneurs and creating a conducive business environment will help tackle unemployment while boosting economic growth.
At the same time, the party has called for stronger cooperation between government institutions, investors and international development partners to accelerate economic recovery and expand sustainable employment opportunities for young people.
According to the party, such partnerships are vital in mobilizing resources, attracting investment and supporting Puntland’s long-term economic transformation.
As Puntland advances its development agenda, youth unemployment continues to dominate public discourse. The Puntland Democratic Party maintains that investing in young people is not only an economic necessity but also key to achieving lasting stability, inclusive growth and prosperity across the region.
