Masaf Spaces Launches Operations in Somalia as Part of Its Pan-African Expansion Strategy
Masaf Spaces is proud to announce the official launch of its operations in Somalia—marking a strategic milestone in its Pan-African vision to empower youth and catalyze innovation across the continent. The expansion into Somalia is the organization’s first regional scale-up outside Ethiopia, reflecting both a bold ambition and a deep-rooted commitment to local relevance.
Over the past several years, Masaf Spaces has established itself as a leading innovation and empowerment hub for young people in the Somali Region of Ethiopia. With a focus on nurturing youth leadership, entrepreneurship, digital skills, and community resilience, Masaf Spaces has supported thousands of aspiring changemakers—particularly those from underserved and marginalized backgrounds.
Now, that mission is expanding into Somalia, a country with one of the youngest and most dynamic populations in Africa. Despite decades of complex challenges, Somalia remains a symbol of strength, creativity, and resilience—qualities that align closely with Masaf Spaces’ core values.
“Our decision to expand to Somalia is both strategic and deeply personal,” said Ahmed Taman, Executive Director of Masaf Spaces.
“As an organization founded and based in the Somali Region of Ethiopia, we share strong social, economic, and cultural ties with Somali communities. This local and cultural proximity gives us a nuanced understanding of youth realities in the region. We believe African youth—especially in the Horn—share common challenges, aspirations, and strengths. Somali youth, in particular, are full of untapped potential, and we are uniquely positioned to walk alongside them in building local, youth-led solutions.”
For the past six months, Masaf Spaces has been laying the groundwork for a meaningful and sustainable presence in Somalia. This included securing office space, forming strategic partnerships, and recruiting a dedicated local team committed to youth empowerment and innovation. With these foundations in place, the Somalia office is now operational and will begin delivering its first wave of programs and activities in June 2025.
These include community dialogues, skills development workshops, entrepreneurship training, and digital innovation labs—all tailored to local needs and designed to amplify youth voices and agency.
“This expansion is not just about geography—it’s about deepening impact,” added Taman. “We believe that youth are not only the future of Somalia but the key to transforming the entire continent. Our role is to invest in their potential, unlock their creativity, and help them shape the resilient, inclusive societies they envision.”
Masaf Spaces invites youth, civil society organizations, government partners, donors, and the broader development community to engage, collaborate, and co-create solutions together.
Contact Masaf Spaces Somalia Office:
📍 Adani Tower, Floor 1, Maka Al-Mukarama Road, Mogadishu, Somalia
📧 somaliaoffice@masaf.co
