Mogadishu, Somalia: Navigating the Complexities of Youth Migration

In a world increasingly characterized by movement and migration, last Thursday night brought forth a significant conversation in Somalia. Baraarug, a vibrant platform dedicated to sparking dialogue, hosted a compelling discussion on the phenomenon of irregular migration—known locally as tahriib—and its expanding impact on the nation’s young generation. How did this gathering shed light on such a critical issue?

Bringing together voices from far and wide through X Spaces, the virtual forum welcomed journalists, youth leaders, and community members to delve deep into the roots, realities, and resolutions surrounding the migration crisis. The atmosphere crackled with urgency and insight.

Preceding this event, on June 29, Baraarug ran a public opinion poll asking, “What is causing the migration (tahriib) of Somali youth?” The responses painted a vivid picture: 66.7% attributed it to youth unemployment, 22.2% to insecurity and conflict, and 11.1% to the universal quest for a better life beyond Somalia’s borders.

“Tahriib: Irregular Migration of Somali Youth, Causes, Consequences & Solutions”
https://t.co/Lf7ZNZuqUc
— Baraarug Campaign (@BaraarugSom) July 3, 2025

Abdalle Mumin, Secretary General of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS), presented these findings with a sense of gravity. “When youth—composing over 70% of our populace—risk perilous routes, many perishing along the journey, while our government remains silent, this indeed is a national catastrophe,” he declared. His words resonated strongly with all who were listening.

Hussein Mohamed, a respected freelance journalist with The New York Times, characterized the stark absence of youth-centered policies as a core issue. Reflecting on this, he noted, “Injustice and clan oppression, compounded by favoritism in leadership roles, push young Somalis into the arms of tahriib. We must challenge these injustices to curtail the crisis.”

From Puntland, Ruun Abdi Kamas, head of the Puntland Youth Association, painted a vivid picture of the regional toll. She recalled Vice President Ilyas Osman’s alarmed statements from May, where airport screenings and stringent passport controls were proposed. However, Kamas warned, “Such surface solutions miss the mark. Without reform in education, accountability for traffickers, and tackling unemployment and insecurity, young hopes remain dashed.”

Yet another voice echoed from Anfac Aden, producer of the Baraarug Podcast, who highlighted the ordeal of women entangled in irregular migration. Tragically, many who drowned near Mayotte were young Somali women. “Behind these numbers are stories of abuse, trauma, and lost dreams. Our women, despite being their families’ backbone, face overwhelming dictates of forced marriage and insecurity,” she explained with somber urgency.

The virtual dialogue was interwoven with thoughts from young participants across Somalia. Mohamud, a spirited young man from Garowe, firmly stated, “Without addressing unemployment and insecurity, migration will persist. The media must champion accountability and call for fresh leadership. Our future cannot rely on the same corrupted figures.”

As the discussion drew to a close, a unified call for concerted action emerged. Civil society, media, and the government must rally to extinguish the systemic triggers of irregular migration. Together, they must infuse the Somali youth with genuine hope and tangible opportunities within their homeland—a homeland yearning for rejuvenation and growth.

Baraarug, at the heart of this dialogue, continues its mission—a digital campaign aspiring to enhance civic rights for women and youth across Somalia. Through digital engagements and public discourse, it seeks to foster a future where every voice is heard.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.