Empowering Women for Economic Progress: Overcoming Challenges and Driving Change in Somalia and Somaliland.

[Deeq A.]

Empowering Women for Economic Progress: Overcoming Challenges and Driving Change in Somalia and Somaliland.

Introduction:
Women’s economic empowerment is vital for the growth and development of societies. In Somalia and Somaliland, efforts are being made to address the challenges faced by women and promote their economic empowerment. This article explores the importance of women’s economic empowerment in these regions, highlights the challenges they face, and discusses the solutions and strategies being implemented to overcome these obstacles.

Challenges Faced by Women in Somalia and Somaliland:
1. Limited Access to Education and Skills Development:
Many women in Somalia and Somaliland face barriers to education, limiting their opportunities for economic empowerment. The lack of access to quality education and vocational training hampers their ability to acquire the necessary skills for entrepreneurship and formal employment.

2. Socioeconomic Barriers and Cultural Norms:
Traditional gender roles and cultural norms often restrict women’s economic participation. Discrimination, limited mobility, and societal expectations hinder women’s access to employment opportunities, credit facilities, and decision-making positions.

3. Financial Exclusion:
Women in Somalia and Somaliland often face challenges in accessing financial services and capital. Limited financial literacy, lack of collateral, and gender biases in the financial sector prevent women from starting or expanding businesses and accessing credit
Solutions and Strategies for Women’s Economic Empowerment:
1. Enhancing Access to Education and Skills Development:
Efforts are underway to improve access to quality education for girls and women. Scholarships, infrastructure development, and awareness campaigns are being implemented to promote the value of education and provide opportunities for skills development.

2. Promoting Entrepreneurship and Business Support:
Initiatives are being introduced to support women entrepreneurs through training programs, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Advocacy for gender-responsive policies and creating an enabling environment for women-owned businesses are crucial steps in promoting entrepreneurship.

3. Improving Financial Inclusion:
Efforts are being made to enhance women’s access to financial services. Promoting digital financial services, providing financial literacy training, and encouraging partnerships between financial institutions and women-led businesses are strategies being implemented to address the financial exclusion faced by women.

4. Advocacy and Policy Reforms:
Stakeholders are advocating for gender-responsive policies and regulations that create a conducive environment for women’s economic empowerment. This includes promoting gender quotas in decision-making positions and advocating for equal opportunities for women in the workforce.

Overcoming Challenges in Somaliland:
In Somaliland, the government and various organizations have taken proactive measures to address the challenges faced by women. The Ministry of Employment, Social Affairs & Family is implementing programs to enhance women’s skills, provide vocational training, and support entrepreneurship. Women’s associations and civil society organisations are playing a significant role in advocating for women’s rights and economic empowerment.

Conclusion:
Women’s economic empowerment is essential for the development and progress of Somalia and Somaliland. By addressing challenges such as limited access to education, cultural norms, and financial exclusion, these regions are implementing strategies to overcome these obstacles. Through enhancing access to education, promoting entrepreneurship, improving financial inclusion, and advocating for gender-responsive policies, women in Somalia and Somaliland can overcome barriers and contribute to their societies’ economic growth and prosperity. It is crucial for stakeholders to continue their collaborative efforts to ensure that women have equal opportunities and access to resources, leading to a more inclusive and equitable society for all

Marwo Hayd

Source Medium

Qaran News