MOGADISHU, Somalia – Abdirahman Abdullahi Kaahiye, a Somali college graduate, sells tea on Mogadishu’s Liido Seashore to outlive, unable to safe work regardless of his Info Know-how diploma and Quranic research.
Often known as “Liido Boy,” Kaahiye studied at a college co-founded by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, hoping to contribute to his nation. As an alternative, he faces a bleak job market. “If I had recognized I’d find yourself promoting tea, I’d have used my time in a different way,” he advised Shabelle TV throughout an interview.
“I used to be one of many college students the President valued most when he was our college lecturer, however the information I gained has not benefited me. In the present day, I’m promoting tea on Liido Seashore,” he added.
Kaahiye, whose late mom dreamed he would turn out to be a pilot, feels the load of unfulfilled expectations. “If she had been alive, how would she really feel seeing me promote tea as a substitute of reaching my desires?” he mentioned, his voice breaking.
Authorities jobs, he mentioned, typically go to these with connections relatively than {qualifications}, a standard hurdle for younger Somalis educated domestically. “I studied below President Hassan Sheikh, nevertheless it hasn’t helped me. Promoting tea is my solely revenue supply,” Kaahiye added.
Somalia’s financial system, scarred by many years of battle, presents scarce alternatives for graduates, pushing many into casual jobs like avenue merchandising or migrating from the nation to abroad for a greater life.
For extra on his story, watch the interview with Liido Boy.
