Mogadishu, 21 September 2026: The Director General of the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the South West State of Somalia today attended in Mogadishu the Validation Workshop on the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) National Action Plan, organised by the Federal Republic of Somalia's Ministry of Youth and Sports.

The workshop was attended by the Directors General of the Ministries of Youth and Sports of the federal member states, representatives of government institutions, organisations working on youth issues and youth organisations.

During the workshop, the role of Somali youth in the country's peace, security and development was discussed in depth, with participants presenting recommendations and views to strengthen the YPS National Action Plan so that it responds to the needs and opportunities of young people.

The Director General stressed the importance of young people of South West State, and of Somalia in general, taking a meaningful part in efforts for peace, stability, coexistence and national development.

The Director General welcomed the efforts to complete this National Plan, noting that it is an important framework for strengthening the participation, leadership and voice of Somali youth on peace and security issues.

Young people are not only the future of the country; they are an important part of its peace and development today.