Somalia Unveils “Rajo Kaaba” Program to Empower Women Through Higher Education
Somalia Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on Thursday officially launched the “Rajo Kaaba” initiative, a landmark national scholarship program designed to support Somali women who wish to pursue postgraduate (Master’s) studies.
The program is aimed at increasing women’s access to higher education, improving their professional and leadership skills, and promoting gender equality in academic and national development.
Speaking at the launch ceremony in Mogadishu, Prime Minister Hamza said the *Rajo Kaaba* initiative is part of the “Daan Qaran” Government’s broader vision to build a knowledgeable and capable society.
He noted that investing in women’s education is a critical pillar of sustainable development and national transformation.
“Education is the key to life, both in this world and the hereafter. It is the foundation of progress and good governance,” said the Prime Minister. “Rajo Kaaba* is a national project that demonstrates how seriously the government is investing in the education and empowerment of Somali girls. A society that educates its women lays the foundation for lasting peace, prosperity, and unity.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that ”Rajo Kaaba“ will not only help more women attain higher academic qualifications but will also enable them to participate meaningfully in nation-building. He encouraged women to seize this opportunity to strengthen their leadership roles in politics, governance, and community service, particularly as the country prepares for upcoming local government elections.
“Somali women today have the opportunity to lead, to inspire, and to shape the future of our nation. The government is fully committed to ensuring that every Somali girl has access to education and can contribute to national development,” he added.
Prime Minister Hamza also highlighted that “Rajo Kaaba” aligns with the government’s *National Transformation Agenda*, which prioritizes human capital development and skills enhancement across all sectors. Through this program, the government seeks to create a fairer, more inclusive education system that produces competent professionals and visionary leaders.
He further commended the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Higher Learning, as well as the Somali National University, for their continued efforts to improve academic standards and expand learning opportunities.
The Prime Minister praised their dedication to providing education that reflects Somali values, culture, and Islamic principles while preparing youth to compete in the modern world.
The “Rajo Kaaba” initiative is expected to benefit hundreds of Somali women in its first phase, providing full scholarships and mentorship support. It represents one of the most significant steps by the *DanQaran* administration to promote education, gender equity, and national progress through the empowerment of women.
