By Jama Ayaanle Feyte
The Chairman of the WADDANI Party, Hirsi Ali H. Hassan, has underscored the vital role of skilled workers in advancing national development, warning that persistent negative societal attitudes and unemployment continue to hinder progress in Somaliland.
In a statement shared on his Facebook page, the chairman noted that the country still struggles with how it values technical professionals—a factor he believes has significantly undermined overall development. He argued that a lack of recognition and encouragement for skilled workers has led to stagnation in key sectors.
“We are a society that often looks down on its own skilled workforce, and that is one of the main reasons we have not advanced as expected,” he said. He added that failing to appreciate and support technical workers has resulted in missed opportunities for growth.
The chairman further observed that, globally, both developed and developing nations agree that labor and skilled workers form the backbone of civilization and economic progress. He also stressed that Islam places a high value on work and productivity.
Addressing economic realities, he pointed out a paradox facing Somaliland: the simultaneous existence of unemployment and labor shortages. He noted that many young people tend to avoid certain types of work, leading to a growing reliance on foreign labor—even as concerns rise that such workers are displacing local job seekers.
Concluding his remarks, the chairman called for a fundamental shift in public perception toward technical and vocational professions. He urged greater support and encouragement for young people to pursue practical skills, describing them as essential pillars for sustainable economic growth and long-term societal development.
