Harnessing the Somali Diaspora for National Prosperity: Key Takeaways from the Doha Conference

DOHA: The Somali Diaspora Conference, hosted in Doha, concluded with a call to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Qatar and Somalia, emphasizing mutual interests for both nations and the broader region.

The conference, attended by officials, academics, politicians, and Somali entrepreneurs, issued a final statement underscoring the importance of cultural and commercial innovation within the Somali diaspora. The statement highlighted the diaspora’s crucial role in advancing Somalia’s development and commercial sectors.

Significant progress achieved by the Somali government across multiple sectors was lauded, particularly its efforts in defending Somali sovereignty and national unity. The conference praised the expatriates for their vital contributions to development programs in Somalia and stressed the need to enhance their capabilities and cooperation.

Key recommendations from the conference included improving government services for the Somali diaspora, leveraging advanced knowledge and technology to empower Somali youth, and utilizing the expertise and skills of expatriates. The importance of regular meetings for the Somali diaspora and creating a unifying umbrella organization was also highlighted.

Investment was identified as a critical driver for Somalia’s economic advancement. The statement called for efforts to encourage expatriates to invest in Somalia, enhance incentives, and provide necessary guarantees for the country’s reconstruction. The conference aimed to spotlight investment opportunities in Somalia and direct expatriates towards leveraging the nation’s diverse resources.

Over the three days, the conference addressed various critical topics, including education, entrepreneurship, culture, identity, youth empowerment, and investment in Somalia. Sessions explored the role of the Somali diaspora in the country’s advancement, drawing from successful diaspora stories and their potential application in Somalia. The discussions also focused on forming strategic partnerships to empower Somalia economically.

Participants expressed aspirations for Somalia’s development, prosperity, and progress. They explored ways to enhance productive capabilities and open new markets to achieve sustainable development.

The conference, the first of its kind held in an Arab country, tackled wide-ranging challenges facing Somalia, including environmental issues, poverty, and unemployment. It proposed solutions for sustainable economic development.

Gratitude was extended to Qatar for hosting the conference, which unified the Somali diaspora and reinforced their commitment to their homeland. Participants recognized Qatar’s generous and unwavering support to Somalia, acknowledging its significant role and contributions under various challenging circumstances. Qatar’s efforts in bridging differences among Somali stakeholders were also commended.

The Somali Diaspora Conference in Doha marks a significant step towards harnessing the potential of the Somali diaspora for the prosperity and revival of Somalia.

This news story is based on a report by Qatar Tribune.