Mogadishu – The United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) recently hosted a one-day seminar for 40 Somali women entrepreneurs, equipping them with knowledge of United Nations procurement procedures and how to compete in the global UN marketplace.
Held at the UN compound in Mogadishu, the seminar provided a dedicated platform for Somali women entrepreneurs to better understand UN procurement processes. The UNSOS Procurement Section delivered practical guidance on vendor registration, bidding procedures and requirements for participating in UN tenders.
Fabio Mevoli, on behalf of the Acting ASG & Head of UNSOS, highlighted a positive trend, with increased participation of Somali vendors in UN procurement and more contracts and purchase orders awarded locally.
He noted that the seminar was designed to strengthen the capacity of women entrepreneurs to effectively engage with the UN system, demystify procurement processes, and encourage women-owned and women-led businesses to compete for UN tenders.
“Through this, we believe women entrepreneurs can contribute to job creation, business formalization and the broader development of Somalia’s economy,” said Mr. Mevoli.
Chief Procurement Officer Bruno Hussein Maboja noted that, for the UN Financial Year of July 2024 to June 2025, Somali businesses had been paid for supply of goods and services to UNSOS approximately US$33.5 million.
“Out of that number, the number of awards made to women-owned companies is quite small based on the statistics. So, the seminar aimed to bring together the women business owners so they can understand that the UN wants to see an increase in participation and eventual award to Somali women-owned businesses,” said Mr. Maboja.
A representative from Deeqa, a Somali-owned construction company, shared lessons learned and practical insights on doing business with the UN based on their experience with UNSOS, with whom they have several contracts.
UNSOS Procurement Officer Manal Kamel observed a marked improvement in participants’ understanding of procurement processes.
“Previous seminars provided general knowledge of procurement. Today, participants are asking more targeted questions on how to successfully compete, which reflects a significant step forward,” said Ms. Kamel.
Participants also underscored the value of the seminar. Ifrah Hassan Noor, who works in media and event management in Mogadishu, highlighted the importance of accessing accurate information and building networks.
“As someone seeking opportunities, meeting other business owners and those with the right information is a valuable experience,” said Ms. Ifrah, while Amal Diriye, co-owner of a chain of coffee shops, described the seminar as an instructive opportunity to learn about the bidding process and doing business with the United Nations.
