Unemployment in Somaliland is an issue that has reached alarming levels, with estimates suggesting that up to 75% of the population has been affected in recent years. This crisis has particularly impacted the younger generation, many of whom graduate from universities only to face a harsh reality: there are few to no jobs waiting for them. This is the typical story for many young people in Somaliland who, despite working hard to earn degrees and qualifications, find themselves unemployed and without any source of income.

The problem is complex with several contributing factors. A key issue is the lack of economic diversity. Somaliland’s economy relies heavily on agriculture and livestock, which are insufficient to support the country's growing population—especially its educated youth. There is an urgent need to develop new industries and create more jobs. Without a more diverse economy, job opportunities will remain limited, leaving graduates with few prospects beyond the small existing job market.

Another major issue is the gap between the skills graduates have and what the job market needs. Many university graduates in Somaliland have strong theoretical knowledge but lack the practical skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market. The education system is not aligned with the demands of the economy, and there are limited vocational training programs to help close this gap. As a result, even when jobs are available, many graduates are not fully prepared to meet employer expectations.

Nepotism, tribalism, and corruption also worsen the problem. In both the public and private sectors, jobs are often not awarded based on merit but are given to individuals with the right connections or family ties. This culture of favouritism blocks qualified candidates from accessing jobs, leading to further frustration among the youth. It is common to hear stories of individuals who, despite their hard-earned degrees and qualifications, are repeatedly passed over for positions that go to less qualified candidates from influential families or tribes.

The consequences of this widespread unemployment are far-reaching. One major implication is youth migration and brain drain. Faced with limited opportunities at home, many young Somalilanders are forced to seek better prospects elsewhere, often taking great risks by migrating illegally. This exodus not only deprives Somaliland of its best and brightest minds but also contributes to a cycle of poverty and underdevelopment, as the country loses its skilled workforce to more prosperous nations.

However, another equally concerning consequence of this unemployment crisis is its impact on mental health. The psychological toll on unemployed youth is profound and often overlooked. Imagine the case of "X," a young woman who graduates with excellent grades, full of hope and determination. She begins her job search with high expectations, only to face repeated rejections. Despite being well-qualified for various positions, X is unable to secure employment due to corruption, tribalism, or other systemic barriers. As months turn into years, her sense of hope diminishes, and she begins to feel the weight of depression setting in. This scenario, unfortunately, is the reality for many young graduates in Somaliland, who face not only the economic strain of unemployment but also the emotional burden of feeling helpless and marginalised.

The mental health of Somaliland’s youth is deteriorating as a result of this prolonged unemployment crisis. Without stable jobs or income, many young people struggle to support themselves and their families, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and depression. The loss of self-esteem and sense of purpose that comes with being unable to contribute meaningfully to society only adds to the mental health challenges facing these young individuals.

So, what can be done to address this growing crisis? One major question is how the government can improve the situation and protect the mental well-being of its youth. While Somaliland is a developing country with limited resources, it must prioritise addressing unemployment as part of its broader development agenda. Reforming the education system to align with market needs, promoting economic diversification, and tackling corruption and tribalism in both the public and private sectors are critical steps in this process.

In conclusion, unemployment in Somaliland is a complex and deeply ingrained problem with serious consequences for both the economy and the mental health of the youth. While the challenges are significant, there is hope that through focused efforts, including economic reforms, education system adjustments, and addressing corruption, Somaliland can begin to create a brighter future for its well-educated but underemployed young generation.