By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — The World Bank has announced a new $112 million project aimed at creating 28,000 jobs for young people and providing direct cash assistance to 123,000 vulnerable households across Somalia. The initiative is expected to benefit nearly 738,000 people nationwide.
The project, known as BOOST-You (Building Opportunities and Outcomes in Social Protection and Youth Employment), marks a significant step in Somalia’s efforts to strengthen state-led development and reduce reliance on emergency humanitarian aid. It is designed to promote economic recovery, strengthen government systems, and build resilience among communities affected by years of conflict and instability.
World Bank Country Manager for Somalia, Hideki Matsunaga, said the initiative builds on the government’s Baxnaano program, which was Somalia’s first nationwide social protection scheme providing direct cash transfers to vulnerable families.
“BOOST-You is a testament to Somalia’s commitment to building strong institutions and creating real opportunities for its youth,” Matsunaga said. “It also strengthens trust and engagement between the government and its citizens.”
Funding for the project includes $100 million from the International Development Association (IDA), $10 million from the Somalia Multi-Partner Fund (MPF), and $2 million from the Global Shield Financing Facility (GSFF).
The World Bank said the project aims to help Somalia transition from dependence on short-term humanitarian relief toward a more sustainable model of economic and social resilience. The initiative also comes at a critical time, following Somalia’s completion of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) debt relief process in December 2023 — a milestone that unlocked new opportunities for international investment and financial support.
The BOOST-You project will be implemented under the leadership of the Federal Government of Somalia, with the goal of advancing inclusive growth, expanding youth employment, and strengthening social protection systems across the country.
“This is not just an investment in jobs — it’s an investment in the future of Somalia’s young generation,” Matsunaga added.
