By Zakaria Hassan - Reporter
MOGADISHU — Mogadishu is hosting a Regional Women’s Business and Investment Fair to boost women-led small and medium-sized enterprises, as female entrepreneurs drive almost half of new formal businesses in the city.
The three-day event opened on Monday and features women-led businesses showcasing products and services to owners, government officials and bank representatives.
The initiative is funded by the European Union and implemented by ADRA, in partnership with relevant organisations.
Held under the theme “Empowerment Through Investment,” the fair aims to link women entrepreneurs to financing, markets and wider business networks.
Ismail Abdalla, Director of Somalia’s Investment Promotion Office, said women have established nearly 45% of formal businesses in Mogadishu.
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“Somali women own nearly 45% of the formal businesses established in Mogadishu. This demonstrates the strength and contribution of Somali women to the country’s economy,” Abdalla said.
The figure highlights the growing role of women in Mogadishu’s business sector and their contribution to economic growth.
Women entrepreneurs attending the fair said they are an important pillar of the country’s economy and called for greater access to finance and support for women-led businesses.
The fair also provides entrepreneurs with an opportunity to showcase their products, connect with financial institutions and potential investors, and explore new opportunities to expand their businesses.
Organisers hope the event will help increase investment in women-led enterprises and create new opportunities for female entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and contribute further to Somalia’s economy.