Mogadishu - The United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) recently hosted a business seminar in Mogadishu to empower Somali entrepreneurs with access to UN procurement opportunities.

The seminar, co-hosted by Somalia's Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Somali Chamber of Commerce and Industry, attracted vendors seeking to establish business partnerships with the UN.

UNSOS officials provided tips on successful bidding for UN tenders and guided the vendors through the process, covering topics such as bid preparation, UN regulations, and registration on the UN Global Marketplace - a procurement portal.

In her written speech (read by the Chief Procurement Officer Bruno Maboja), the Head of UNSOS, Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, urged Somali businesses to seize the business opportunities to contribute to Somalia’s economic growth.

“Data shows an increase in the participation of Somali vendors in UNSOS tenders, resulting in more contracts being awarded to Somali businesses. This is positive news,” said ASG Kacyira, adding that the capacity of Somali vendors is yet to be fully realised.

Professor Isse Mahamud Halane, a representative of the Somalia Chamber of Commerce, thanked UNSOS for its support in awarding business contracts to Somali entrepreneurs.

“Let’s seize this opportunity to work towards building a strong and connected Somali business community,” said Prof. Xalane via Zoom.

The workshop proved to be a valuable learning experience for young Somali entrepreneurs, who are eager to utilise technology and innovation to grow their businesses.

Hawa Yonis, a logistician, was particularly enthusiastic, citing the workshop as a game-changer in her understanding of the UN’s tender requirements and processes.

“Given that our country is recovering from conflict, it is crucial for Somali vendors to learn and grow by engaging with international organisations like the UN,” said Yonis.

Abdirahman Shuceyb, a food vendor, described the seminar as an opportunity to strengthen business relations between the UN and Somali vendors.

“Such opportunities help small businesses to grow, gain experience, and understand the UN procurement system,” said Shuceyb.

In 2024, Somali vendors received contracts worth $33.5 million from UNSOS, with the UN agency aiming to further increase procurement from local businesses to bolster Somalia’s economic development.