Somalia has
suffered over fourteen years of violent
conflicts. More than half the population of
Somalia is under the age of 18.
The
Socioeconomic problems faced by the Somali
youth existed prior to the armed conflict.
These problems have arisen as a result of
corruption, poverty and the lack of a
national plan for developing the young
generation. Somali youth have neither
enjoyed the freedom of expression, nor
experienced normal, stable social
relationships and systems of governance
since independence in 1960.
The civil war
was an impediment to Somali youth and their
development. Many of them have known conflict
and hardship for most of their lives.
Hundreds of thousands of Somali youth serve
as militia loyal to brutal warlords that use
them as an instrument for war and violence.
With adequate
support, guidance and skills, the Somali
youth can provide the foundation for building
peace and rebuilding their lives and
communities.
