Shaqo Platform

In 2021, Habeb Mill started with a vision to improve the organic food industry in Puntland and quickly ascended to become a major local producer, thanks to the foundational support from Shaqo Platform. Specializing in products such as sorghum, wheat, soor (grits), mushaari (Somali porridge), and sesame seed oil, their operations epitomize the potential of green jobs and sustainable food production that is resilient to climate change. Their success is not just in production but in setting benchmarks for eco-friendly practices that align with our goals of climate adaptation and community well-being. We are always looking for partners who share our vision for a sustainable future. Get in touch to see how you can make a difference with Shaqo Platform.

In our training sessions, Shaqo Platform's students do not just learn to create business plans—they learn to bring them to life. We teach them how to develop, present, implement and refine their plans to achieve their goals.

Meet Habboon, an inspiring entrepreneur from Borama. She’s currently growing her beauty salon with help from our entrepreneurship program at Shaqo Platform. Shaqo Platform supports small businesses like Habboon by providing them with the skills, tools, training and funding they need to consolidate and expand their business. Habboon is now applying her enhanced business skills to not only offer superior services but also to train and employ other young people.

Meet Habboon, an inspiring entrepreneur from Borama. She’s currently growing her beauty salon with help from our entrepreneurship program at Shaqo Platform. We support small businesses like Habboon by providing them with the tools, training and funding they need to expand their operations and employ more young people. Habboon is now applying her enhanced business skills to not only offer superior services but also to mentor aspiring beauticians.

At Shaqo Platform, our entrepreneurship training is turning the youth of Somalia into tomorrow's business leaders. Our comprehensive and intense A-Z training program equips all students with everything they need to develop, launch, and manage their own small businesses. From practical exercises to rigorous tests and exams, we ensure each participant gains hands-on experience and deep insights into the real-world challenges of entrepreneurship. Our training goes beyond theory, diving into the essential skills required in the local market. Connect with Shaqo Platform to learn more about our mission and how you can be part of providing jobs to marginalised youth.

Shaqo Platform is excited to share a significant milestone in our commitment to improving mental health, According to World Health Organization, Somali National University and the Federal Ministry of Health, 76.9% of Somalis face mental health challenges after decades of civil wars, conflicts, famines and other severe challenges. In response, Shaqo Platform has so far successfully trained 60 new mental health paraprofessionals. These dedicated paraprofessionals are now actively supporting over 600 young people across all regions, offering essential mental health services and fostering resilience within local communities. This achievement contributes to rebuilding a mental health system that is nearly non-existent. Facing extreme shortages of knowledge, service providers, and personnel, our efforts lay the foundation for an accessible mental health care that can serve our communities effectively. Join us in celebrating this progress and in our ongoing efforts to integrate mental health support into our youth employment programme. #MentalHealthAwareness #ShaqoPlatform

Get to know our Youth Advisory Committee Shaqo Platform’s Youth Advisory Committee is made up of 12 young advisors from all regions, reflecting the diverse experiences and backgrounds of our youth. They play an important role in shaping the policies and strategies of Shaqo Platform, ensuring that our work is both relevant and impactful. It is essential for Shaqo Platform to include the youth in our decision-making processes, especially since they make up over 70% of our population. Our young committee members are not just participants; they are leaders who actively contribute to their local communities and our mission. We recognize and reward their efforts by compensating all members of the Youth Advisory Committee. This not only highlights the value of their contributions but also underlines our commitment to professional and sustainable youth engagement. Join us as we empower the next generation of leaders in the Somali peninsula.

At Shaqo Platform, we are dedicated to providing sustainable job opportunities for Somali youth. Over the past year, we have made remarkable progress in empowering young people and boosting economic growth in local communities. Our Impact - 802 Youth employed - 958 Youth trained in vocational skills, job readiness and entrepreneurship - 49 businesses established or scaled up. - 343 USD is the average monthly income of employed youth - 49% of the youth are women. Our approach Skills Development: We align our training with market needs, ensuring youth are ready for current and future job demands. Entrepreneur Support: We offer mixed training, financial support, and resources to help businesses grow and create more jobs for youth. Policy Advocacy: We work with public and private sectors to create a business-friendly environment that encourages adn promotes youth employment. Where we work Regions: Somaliland, Puntland, and South Central Somalia Urban Centers: Hargeisa, Garowe, Burao, Mogadishu, Baidoa, Borama Rural Areas: Villages and IDP camps in Puntland and Central Somalia Join Us: We are committed to empowering Somali youth and promote economic development. Together, we can create a brighter future with more opportunities for the youth. Learn more about our impact and how you can get involved: www.shaqoplatform.com #ShaqoPlatform #ShaqoWaaSharaf #WorkIsDignity

Ubad Shopping is one of the shining examples of how Shaqo Platform is empowering Somali youth through entrepreneurship training. After completing our business accelerator program, these 4 young entreprenerus received seed funding and business development support, helping turn their dream into reality. Today, their small shop is flourishing, creating income and uplifting their local community. Shaqo Platform is proud of what they have accomplished! #ShaqoWaaSharaf #ShaqoPlatform