The Federation of Somali Trade Unions (FESTU) has reaffirmed its commitment to defending and advancing workers’ rights following the election of a new leadership team during its Fifth Quadrennial Congress in Mogadishu. The congress, held under the theme “Empowering Workers’ Voice for Justice, Democracy, and Inclusive Development,” marked a significant milestone for the Somali labor movement.
Omar Faruk Osman was overwhelmingly elected as Secretary General, pledging to take on the challenges ahead with determination. “The challenge is there and well spelt out. But I am up for it. Workers form the cornerstone of every economy, which is why we have to ensure that they are well taken care of. That is my main target,” Osman stated after his victory.
Alongside Osman, the new leadership includes Ahmed Osman Said as President, Nasra Haji Ahmed and Maslah Abukar as First and Second Deputy Presidents, Hussein Madey Mohammed as Deputy Secretary General, Ubah Ahmed Haji as National Treasurer, and Mohamed Ahmed Mohamed as National Organizing Secretary. They will serve for a four-year term, leading FESTU’s efforts to champion social justice and democratic transitions in Somalia’s labor sector.
The congress, attended by 328 delegates including 243 from Somalia’s five Federal Member States and 85 from Mogadishu highlighted key labor issues, including strengthening workers’ rights, promoting decent work, and institutionalizing social dialogue as a fundamental pillar of national development.
Deputy Prime Minister Abdisalan Abdi Ali assured the delegates of the government’s commitment to protecting Somali workers’ rights and reinforcing the Decent Work Agenda. Minister of Labour and Social Affairs Yusuf Mohamed Adan and Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Hassan Moallim Mohamud were also present, emphasizing the government’s collaboration with labor unions.
The event garnered significant international support, with attendance from British Ambassador Mike Nithavrianakis, Italian Ambassador Pier Mario Daccò Coppi, and a senior representative from the US Embassy. The International Labour Organization (ILO) was represented by Director-General Gilbert Houngbo, who commended FESTU’s leadership in promoting social dialogue and announced its official membership in the Global Coalition for Social Justice.
FESTU, which represents 12 union affiliates and 179,460 workers across Somalia, continues to be a critical advocate for labor rights. The Congress served as a platform for debates on pressing labor issues, reinforcing FESTU’s role in shaping a fair and inclusive labor system in Somalia.
