In a landmark effort to forge a unified vision for Somalia’s future, the National Economic Council recently convened a high-level conference to develop a comprehensive strategy for the country’s development by the year 2060. The gathering, aptly titled the “Vision 2060 Conference,” brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including government ministers, state representatives, academics, civil society organizations, business leaders, and esteemed guests.
Presided over by the Minister of Livestock, Forestry, and Range of the Federal Government of Somalia, the conference placed a sharp focus on aligning the nation’s economic policies and development plans under a cohesive Vision 2060 framework. The overarching goal is to pave the way for a prosperous and thriving Somalia, capable of achieving sustainable growth and progress across all sectors.
Dr. Mahdi Mohamed, a prominent member of the National Economic Council, underscored the conference’s significance, stating, “The Somalia we envision for the future must be one of progress and prosperity. We will place a particular emphasis on vital sectors such as livestock, agriculture, forestry, and industries.”
The event served as a platform for experts from various domains to converge and contribute their insights. Participants hailed from diverse backgrounds, including private sector associations, business communities, government ministries, and civil society organizations. Dr. Mohamed issued a rallying call, urging, “We must unite our efforts to shape the Vision 2060 for the Somalia we aspire to create.”
Among the key issues addressed was the revitalization of Somalia’s agricultural sector. Stakeholders advocated for the rehabilitation of farmlands and the effective utilization of the country’s river resources, which are vital for agricultural productivity. Somalia’s extensive coastline and strategic location along the Indian Ocean were also highlighted as potential economic drivers.
Additionally, the conference delved into the pivotal role of the livestock sector, a cornerstone of Somalia’s traditional economy. Participants recognized the need to support and develop the diverse range of livestock, from camels and goats to the resilient Somali sheep breeds.
The Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation of the Federal Government of Somalia, Ahmed Abdirisak, and the President’s Chief Economic Advisor and Head of the National Economic Council, Dr. Hassan Khuse, jointly urged attendees to engage in constructive dialogue and put forth actionable recommendations to shape the Vision 2060 roadmap.
Dr. Khuse emphasized the importance of establishing a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth, stating, “It is imperative that we develop a comprehensive and enduring strategy that guides our efforts towards achieving the Vision 2060 objectives.”
The conference witnessed spirited discussions and expert insights from various sectors, underscoring the multifaceted nature of Somalia’s development aspirations. Participants were encouraged to critically examine the proposed strategies, identify potential challenges, and offer solutions to ensure the Vision 2060 plan’s feasibility and effectiveness.
As the conference drew to a close, Minister Hassan Hussein Mohamed, who presided over the opening, expressed optimism in the youth’s ability to unite and overcome obstacles, paving the way for future generations to reap the benefits of the Vision 2060 efforts. He stated, “It is possible that a child born today may, in 30 years, directly benefit from the work we are undertaking now, provided the Somali youth remain united and committed to this shared vision of progress.”
The Vision 2060 Conference marked a significant stride towards charting a comprehensive blueprint for Somalia’s long-term development, fostering inclusive dialogue, and harnessing the collective wisdom of diverse stakeholders. As the nation embarks on this ambitious journey, the resounding message echoed throughout the event was one of unity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to realizing a prosperous future for all Somalis.
