Mogadishu, Somalia — The President of the Union of Commercial and Food Workers (UCFW), Mr. Yusuf Mohamud Mohamed, held a high-level meeting with the leadership of the Somali Congress of Trade Unions (SOCOTU), led by Mr. Mohamed Haji, President of SOCOTU, and Mr. Mohamud Hassan, Secretary General. The meeting marked a significant step toward strengthening cooperation, solidarity, and shared commitment among trade unions in Somalia.
The discussions centered on enhancing collaboration between UCFW and SOCOTU to protect workers’ rights, promote fair labor practices, and advance the overall welfare of the Somali workforce. Both organizations expressed their mutual understanding of the critical role trade unions play in shaping equitable labor relations and fostering socio-economic justice in the country.
In his remarks, Mr. Yusuf Mohamud Mohamed emphasized the vital importance of unity and collective action in achieving meaningful progress for Somali workers. He reaffirmed UCFW’s dedication to defending the rights of workers in the commercial and food sectors, ensuring fair wages, safe working environments, and social protection for all employees.
“We firmly believe that collaboration among trade unions is the cornerstone of a strong labor movement,” said Mr. Yusuf Mohamud Mohamed, President of UCFW. “Our partnership with SOCOTU reinforces our joint responsibility to stand for justice, equality, and decent work for every Somali worker.”
The SOCOTU leadership commended the UCFW for its active role and steadfast commitment to improving labor conditions in Somalia. Mr. Mohamed Haji, President of SOCOTU, acknowledged UCFW’s continued efforts to empower workers and strengthen their representation, particularly in key economic sectors such as commerce, food production, and services.
Both parties agreed on the need to intensify coordination, develop joint initiatives, and enhance capacity-building programs aimed at equipping trade union leaders and members with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively advocate for workers’ rights. They also highlighted the importance of establishing strong institutional frameworks that can ensure compliance with national labor laws and international labor standards.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration, promote inclusive dialogue, and build a unified national labor movement capable of addressing the complex challenges facing Somali workers today. This renewed partnership between UCFW and SOCOTU represents a major stride toward strengthening organized labor in Somalia and ensuring that workers’ voices are heard and respected in all national development processes.