By Zamzam Daqare - Reporter
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DJIBOUTI, 2 November 2026 Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh pledged on Sunday to increase financing and financial support for young entrepreneurs as part of government efforts to create jobs and develop small businesses.
According to the Djiboutian News Agency (ADI), Guelleh made the announcement during the National and African Youth Day celebrations at the People's Palace in Djibouti City, where new initiatives to support young people were presented.
The president said the government would strengthen financing mechanisms, support programmes and incentives for young entrepreneurs, stressing that business opportunities should not be limited to those who already have financial resources.
He said economic growth should translate into employment and opportunities for young people, calling for greater investment, economic diversification and closer alignment between education, vocational training and labour market needs.
Guelleh also announced that the national youth policy would prioritise helping people working in the informal economy transition into registered and sustainable businesses.
The measures include simplifying administrative procedures, expanding access to financing and introducing financial incentives for people seeking to develop their businesses.
The president acknowledged that despite progress in supporting young people in recent years, significant challenges remained. He reaffirmed that youth development would continue to be a priority in government policy.
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This year's celebrations were held under the theme "From Skills to Self-Employment" and brought together youth delegations from across Djibouti's regions and neighbourhoods of the capital.
During the ceremony, three young people were recognised for successfully oF their own sources of income.
Among them was Yacoub Ahmed Ali, who trained as an electrician and independently developed skills in refrigeration, plumbing and construction, building a regular customer base.
Khadija Burhan, who leads the Ardo Village Community Association, was also honoured. The association brings together women artisans who share a workspace, transport and a sales outlet to reduce operating costs.
The third recipient was Ahmed Nour Mohamed, who started a street-trading business after his previous restaurant venture failed.
A special encouragement award was presented to Maryam Mohamed Ahmed, who is rebuilding a home-based business after prolonged medical treatment in Egypt forced her to close her shop.
The event the featured speeches, panel discussions and cultural performances.
Among those attending were Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, Minister of Youth and Culture Hibo Moumin Assow, and other senior officials.
Djibouti's First Lady, Kadra Mahamoud Haid, who chairs the National Union of Djiboutian Women (UNFD), also attended. The organisation works to promote women's development and strengthen social cohesion.