Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud officially launched Somalia’s National Transformation Plan (NTP) Labs today in a significant step toward advancing the country’s development.

At the event, held in Mogadishu, the President outlined the government’s approach to boosting key sectors while promoting a private sector-led economy, which he views as essential to Somalia’s long-term growth.

During his speech, President Mohamud acknowledged that despite recruiting 70,000 staff in the health sector and increasing security personnel in liberated areas over the past two years, the public sector remains unable to meet the job demands of the population.

He pointed out that most job opportunities are available in the private sector, driving the government’s decision to foster a private-driven economy while setting regulations and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

“The government is focused on creating conditions for a private sector-driven economy, where we set the regulations and the private sector leads the way,” President Mohamud said.

The launch of the NTP Labs marks a pivotal moment in Somalia’s development efforts. The labs are designed to foster innovation and collaboration in key sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, energy, education, healthcare, and logistics.

The initiative aims to tackle the country’s most pressing challenges and drive sustainable growth, despite Somalia’s ongoing reliance on foreign financial support for its civil service, military, and other essential operations.

The President also emphasized the importance of progress, asserting that stagnation will not be accepted. He welcomed diverse opinions from scholars and politicians, signaling a commitment to inclusive national dialogue as Somalia works toward its development goals.

Phase I of the National Transformation Plan will focus on enhancing Somalia’s agricultural productivity, boosting its fisheries sector, expanding energy access, improving healthcare and education, and developing logistics systems.

These sectors are seen as crucial for Somalia’s economic growth and sustainability, but the country’s poverty levels, among the highest in the world according to the World Bank Report, present significant hurdles.

The NTP Labs aim to serve as hubs of innovation, collaboration, and growth, reinforcing Somalia’s commitment to building a brighter, more sustainable future for its citizens.