Addressing the Gap

Abstract

This chapter discusses the results of field research on Somalian youth carried out in Baidoa, Kismayo, and Hargeisa. The study found that young people in Somalia are looking for ways to contribute meaningfully to their society but feel frustrated and disenfranchised by the lack of opportunities available to them. Although young people constitute around two-thirds of the population, youth unemployment may be as high as 80 per cent or 90 per cent in some areas. Two areas for positively engaging young people are sports, supported by 56 per cent of respondents, and social media, used by over 60 per cent of respondents on a daily basis. With the right support and investment, these areas could offer possibilities for young people to fulfil their potential, act as agents of change, and contribute to social reconciliation.