Organizations we’ve collaborated with

About masaf Spaces

Masaf Spaces is the flagship youth innovation and skills program of Masaf Development Organization (MASAF). Established in Jigjiga, Masaf Spaces became the first co-working and youth innovation hub in the Somali Region, responding to the absence of inclusive, safe, and accessible spaces where young people could learn, collaborate, and build sustainable futures. What began as a single physical hub has evolved into a scalable model of youth-centered innovation spaces, combining physical community hubs with emerging digital platforms. Today, in addition to its original hub in Jigjiga, Masaf Spaces has expanded to include a second physical hub in Degahbour, Somali Region—further extending its reach to underserved youth across the region. Masaf Spaces provides young people—especially those from underserved and marginalized backgrounds—with the tools, networks, and confidence to turn ideas into livelihoods, careers, and community-driven solutions.

Why Masaf Spaces Matter

In many underserved regions, youth face multiple barriers: limited access to skills training, technology, mentorship, professional networks, and safe civic spaces. Masaf Spaces addresses these gaps by creating inclusive environments where youth are not only beneficiaries, but active contributors and leaders.

Masaf Spaces:

  • Expands access to skills and opportunities

  • Encourages youth-led problem solving and innovation

  • Strengthens local entrepreneurship and employment pathways

  • Supports social cohesion and civic engagement

  • Contributes to a stronger youth empowerment ecosystem

Services Available to Youth

Through Masaf Spaces, young people can access integrated support services designed to move them from learning to action:

  • Skills Development & Lifelong Learning
    Practical, market-relevant skills that enhance employability and entrepreneurship.

  • Digital Literacy & Technology Access
    Access to digital tools, internet, and training that bridge the digital divide.

  • Entrepreneurship Training & Business Coaching
    Support for early-stage ideas, startups, and small businesses.

  • Startup Incubation & MSME Support
    Guidance on business development, growth, and sustainability.

  • Mentorship & Peer Networking
    Connections with mentors, peers, and role models who support personal and professional growth.

  • Career Guidance & Employability Support
    CV development, interview preparation, and job-readiness training.

Community Dialogues & Youth Leadership Programs
Safe spaces for civic engagement, dialogue, and youth-led initiatives.

Physical & Digital Masaf Spaces Model Physical Masaf Spaces

Physical Masaf Spaces serve as community innovation hubs—safe, inclusive environments where youth can meet, learn, collaborate, and create. These hubs bring essential services closer to communities, particularly in regions where such opportunities are limited.

Physical hubs support:

  • Hands-on training and workshops

  • Peer-to-peer learning and collaboration

  • Youth-led initiatives and community solutions

  • Local innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership

They also function as civil spaces that promote inclusion, dialogue, and participation, strengthening trust and cooperation among youth, institutions, and communities.

Digital Masaf Spaces (Coming Soon)

Digital Masaf Spaces will extend the full Masaf Spaces experience online—ensuring that youth in remote, displaced, or underserved areas can access the same services offered in physical hubs.

Digital Masaf Spaces will provide:

  • Online skills training and learning resources

  • Virtual mentorship and peer networks

  • Entrepreneurship and business support

  • Career guidance and employability tools

  • Access to opportunities, events, and communities

This blended model allows MASAF to scale impact without geographic barriers, reaching more young people across Ethiopia and beyond.

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Masaf spaces

Peer Support, Youth Leadership & Ecosystem Contribution

Masaf Spaces is built on the belief that youth are not just participants, but leaders of change. The spaces actively promote peer learning, collaboration, and youth-led solutions that respond to local challenges.

Through Masaf Spaces, MASAF:

Fast Wifi

Stay connected with our high-speed internet, ensuring seamless browsing, streaming, and productivity throughout your workday.

Working Set

Enjoy a fully equipped workspace designed for comfort and efficiency, tailored to meet your professional needs.

Kitchen Set

Take a break and recharge in our modern kitchen, complete with all the essentials to keep you fueled and refreshed.

Meeting Room

Host productive meetings in a private, well-equipped space that sets the stage for collaboration and success.

Receptionist

Our friendly reception staff is here to assist you, ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for you and your clients.

Private Office

Need some privacy? Secure your focus in a dedicated office space designed for uninterrupted productivity.

Impact and Long-Term Vision

Masaf Spaces has already demonstrated the power of youth-centered spaces to unlock potential, create opportunity, and strengthen communities. As part of MASAF’s long-term strategy, the organization envisions expanding Masaf Spaces into a network of youth innovation and skills hubs across major cities in Africa, through partnerships, learning, and scalable models.

Grounded in Ethiopia and informed by local realities, Masaf Spaces aims to become a reference model for inclusive, youth-led development, supporting the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders.

Sweet Reviews From Our Members

Real stories of success, collaboration, and growth shared by our valued members.

Where passion meets productivity in WorkBase

The Somali Deaf Development Association held a one-day event at the hall provided by Masa Space, and we were thoroughly impressed. The venue was stunning, with an elegant design and a welcoming atmosphere that set the perfect tone for our gathering. The facilities were immaculate, and the state-of-the-art amenities significantly enhanced our overall experience.
The staff’s professionalism and attention to detail were evident, ensuring everything ran seamlessly. Thank you, Masa Space, for offering such a fantastic space that surpassed all our expectations. We eagerly anticipate our next event here!

Abdifatah ahmed

Excutive director of SoDDA

Naadiga Curs recently held a three-day training activity at Masaf
Space, and we were thoroughly impressed by the entire experience. The space was well-maintained and equipped with all the necessary amenities, making it easy for a hosting a successful training. The quality of service at Masa Space was truly outstanding. The staff was attentive to our every need and went above and beyond to ensure our training’s success. Masa Space proved to be an outstanding choice for our training activity and we would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a co-working, training or event space in Jigjiga.

Abdirahman bashir

Deputy director of naadiga curis

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Ahmed abdi

Reading club member

Where passion meets productivity in WorkBase

Masaf offers unparalleled services. Their coworking space fosters creativity, productivity, and collaboration with top-notch amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. I’ve also used their event halls, and the professional staff, attention to detail, and seamless planning made the experience exceptional. Highly recommended!

Abdifatah mohamed

Freelancer

Where passion meets productivity in WorkBase

We have joined the Masaf Space community, a place designed for startups and freelancers. This space has helped us establish a dedicated location where clients can reach us, as our business operates entirely online. It will also support us in building connections that can bring valuable opportunities for our business.

Muna ali

Founder and ceo of MUSODMED

Our Spaces

Work Better Together in Our Coworking Space

Our Team

Meet Our Professional Team

Mahamed Aabi Ahmed
Finance and Admin Manager
Mumtaaz Mohamud
Community and Events Coordinator

Blog & News

Blog and Articles From Masaf space

Now Recruiting: Ethiopian Mastercard Foundation Scholars & ALA Alumni

Masaf Spaces Summer Internship Program 2025

Masaf Spaces Launches Operations in Somalia as Part of Its Pan-African Expansion Strategy

Get in touch

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