Somalia faces significant challenges in fostering inclusive and democratic political processes. Despite some gains in authority after al-Shabaab’s decline, resource competition and unresolved grievances have led to increased inter-communal conflict. Disputes over power and resource allocation among different government levels hinder stable governance.

The complex democratic landscape is further complicated by ongoing civil war, clan disputes, and extremist threats. Climate change poses additional risks due to Somalia’s reliance on agriculture in a semi-arid environment. Youth engagement in climate initiatives is limited by unemployment, educational barriers, and exclusion from decision-making, exacerbating marginalization.

With over 70% of the population under 30, youth involvement is crucial, as feelings of frustration and inequity have led many to join militias or seek opportunities abroad. Empowering this demographic could turn them into a valuable asset for the country’s future.

With the emergence of climate change, the youth have not been given a priority to embrace mitigations to climate change. Climate change in Somalia is characterized by recurrent drought and regular flooding which leads to failed crops, loss of livestock and Somalia’s chronic food insecurity. Climate crises threaten Somalia’s socio-economic progress by increasing water and food scarcity, the need for humanitarian assistance, displacement and the degradation of traditional livelihoods.

The young people have not received any awareness and sensitization to climate change. There’s a need to enhance awareness and understanding of climate change among the population, especially the youth in Somalia may not be fully aware of the causes, consequences and potential solutions related to climate change and do not have the knowledge and skills in dealing with climate change hence there is need to empower, and build their capacity on how to deal with climate change.  

In response to that, Youth Empowering Council (YECO) Somalia with the funds from the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF), launched a new project entitled on “Empowering the Next Generation to Address Climate Change in Somalia”.

The project will establish four networks, comprising 40 climate champions across four districts, enhance their climate change literacy and awareness, and empower them to lead awareness campaigns for youth and communities, influence and adjust local and national policies, and implement adaptation initiatives in four districts. By providing comprehensive education and resources, the project equips youth from four districts with the knowledge and skills needed to become informed advocates and leaders in the fight against climate change.