35 years ago, we found ourselves in a similar situation. Yet, today, the circumstances are worse. It is a truth that is not only unbelievable but deeply shameful. In 2022, with all the advancements in digitalisation and technology, how is it that we still fail to anticipate and address the most basic needs of every human being – access to food and water?

My mandate and urgent call today is directed at all nations: we must come together, regroup, and work towards halting the famine threat in Somalia and strengthening its economic power. If we could manage the COVID-19 crisis as a global community, why are we unable to address the fundamental needs of humanity?

What is even more shocking is that Somalia is a country rich in natural resources. We have years’ worth of underground water reserves, yet we lack the proper equipment to extract this life-saving resource. This is a glaring failure that demands immediate attention.

Somalia is not just a country; it is the gateway of global maritime traffic. Did you know that 30% of the world’s energy passes through Somali waters? This vital route connects Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Eritrea, Yemen, Sudan, Jordan, and Israel. And yet, despite its immense strategic importance, Somalia does not receive the benefits it deserves.

Years of corruption and poor leadership have failed the Somali people and have made matters worse. But this must change. This is why it is part of my mandate: to stop the corruption, end the failure of leadership, and revive the economic and infrastructure systems of both Somalia and the broader African continent for the benefit of all our people.

I am calling for collaboration between all nations, to see the Somali population rise, to see the light of hope shine again. This vision can only be realised through the One Man, One Vote System, where every citizen has a voice and every vote counts.

I stand up for the voiceless, and it is my priority to ensure that the people of Somalia are heard, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive. We must come together – without violence, without weapons – to build a future of peace and prosperity for all.