Somali Family Services (SFS), in partnership with Diakonia, successfully concluded a four-day training and market linkage initiative in Garowe aimed at strengthening the economic participation of women-led cooperatives, women entrepreneurs and young graduates. The initiative focused on practical skills in financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, business development and access to financial services.

Participants explored ways to strengthen their businesses, improve financial management and connect with institutions that can provide financing, business support and employment opportunities. The initiative concluded with a multi-stakeholder market linkage forum, bringing together financial institutions, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Garowe Local Government, women entrepreneurs, cooperatives and young graduates. Representatives from participating banks introduced financial products and services available to women-owned businesses and youth-led enterprises, including financing, savings and other financial solutions. 

The forum provided an opportunity for participants to engage directly with financial institutions and ask practical questions about loan eligibility, financing requirements, start-up support and access to banking services. Bank representatives addressed these concerns, clarified common misconceptions and encouraged participants to explore available financial opportunities.

The involvement of government institutions further strengthened collaboration between the public sector, private sector and communities, highlighting a shared commitment to inclusive economic development and expanded opportunities for women and youth.

Through initiatives such as this, SFS continues to bridge the gap between communities, government institutions and the private sector by creating meaningful market linkages that promote financial inclusion, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities for women and young people in Garowe.