Unleashing Youth Potential in Somalia: Abdikani's Journey of Empowerment and Inspiration

Meet Abdikani, a young enthusiast who had a deep curiosity for mobile technology and a determination to transform his passion into a vocation. Through the Emergency Trust Fund for Africa funded project SAGAL, implemented by the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), Abdikani enrolled in a mobile repair course in December. This step ignited his path toward a promising future. With the support of his family, Abdikani gained the essential knowledge and skills to establish his own mobile repair enterprise.

When Abdikani initially joined the Mobile repairing centre in Afgoye, he had no prior knowledge on mobile phone repair. Nevertheless, he quickly excelled and became one of the programme's top students. He credits this training as a life changing experience that helped him discover his passion for software development. At present, he is pursuing a degree in software engineering. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of the centre and the opportunities it presents.

Setting up his own mobile repair business not only secured a stable income for Abdikani, but also allowed him to support his parents and siblings, who were unable to work and pay their bills. By taking charge of his family's financial responsibilities, Abdikani lifted a significant burden off his parents' shoulders.

"I've always been fascinated by mobile devices, and this project gave me the chance to turn my interest into a valuable skill. Learning about mobile repair has opened up a whole new world of opportunities for me." - Abdikani Hussein Ali Said.

Fostering Community Impact: Abdikani's Dedication Beyond Family

Abdikani's dedication extended beyond his immediate family, as he selflessly offered classes to his young relatives who couldn't participate in the SAGAL project, providing them with an opportunity to learn and develop skills for a brighter future. By sharing his expertise, Abdikani not only empowered others but also contributed to the growth and development of his community.

Abdikani's story highlights the transformative power of education and vocational training initatives. The EU-funded project, implemented by the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) and the Somali Technical Training Institute, provided a platform for individuals like Abdikani to pursue their passions and gain valuable skills. Through their support, Abdikani not only secured his own future but also positively impacted those around him.

Abdikani success story is an inspiration to other mobile repairing students. It shows that with hard work and determination, anyone can achieve their goals. It also shows that mobile repairing is a valuable skill that can lead to a successful career.

One of Abdikani’s classmates shares:

“While we were in the classroom, Abdikani was the same student, but he always supported us, and I am still working with him today in the center he founded. We are appreciative to programmes providing females like us with the chance to acquire the mobile repair skills that will soon change our lives.” - Yasmiin Mohamed Hasan

Abbas Abdullahi Hashi, the deputy director at Somali Technical Training Institute, reflects on Abdikani’s journey:

"Watching Abdikani's transformation has been incredible. He went from struggling with the basics to becoming a proficient user. It's a testament to his hard work and determination.”

Abdifatah Mohamed Omar, who is part of DRC Somalia’s Emergency and Recovery Team explains more about the project:

″With a belief in the power of education and skills development, the project provides vocational training to young individuals aged 15- 21. Through this initiative, they can learn valuable skills such as cooking, computer & IT skills, mobile repair, building electrician and plumbing, electricity (AC & DC), graphic design, as well as mechanics and injector pump repair. These skills not only open doors to employment opportunities but also enable them to pursue their passions and turn their creativity into successful careers.″

More about the Project:

The overall objective of the programme "Inclusive Local and Economic Development” (ILED) funded by the Emergency Trust Fund for Africa is to contribute to stability in Somalia by extending state authority and services, promoting local reconciliation and peacebuilding, creating inclusive economic opportunities and protecting the most vulnerable.

The Social Transfers project (SAGAL) is executed by the Somali Cash Consortium, led by Concern Worldwide and assisted by partners including Save the Children International (SCI), Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), and Danish Refugee Council (DRC), with the Ministry of Labour and Social affairs (MoLSA). The initative strives to enhance resilience, reduce poverty among marginalized households and communities, and bolster social, economic, and human capital. It also aims to facilitate access to productive activities for the most underprivileged youth in Somalia. 

The approach revolves around two main components:

1. Providing cash-based social transfers to targeted households, thereby reducing their vulnerability to shocks and disasters.
2. Facilitating the establishment of systems at regional and district levels to implement a government-led social protection system.