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Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has appointed Zakariye Yusuf Hussein as the new deputy director general of the Presidential Palace, a move that officials say is aimed at strengthening youth participation in government leadership and decision-making.
The appointment was confirmed in a presidential decree issued on Thursday. According to the statement, the decision is part of the Federal Government of Somalia’s broader effort to improve how government institutions operate and to modernize public administration. Authorities say the changes are intended to make government offices more effective while also encouraging a new generation of leaders to take part in shaping the country’s future.
Zakariye Yusuf Hussein is not new to the president’s inner circle. He previously served as secretary to the president, a role that allowed him to work closely with senior government officials and gain experience in high-level administrative processes. In that position, he helped coordinate presidential activities and supported the leadership in managing government affairs.
Before that, Zakariye also served as commissioner of the Borders and Federalism Commission. The commission plays a key role in addressing issues related to Somalia’s federal structure, including the management of regional boundaries and the relationship between the federal government and member states. His work in that role gave him experience in navigating some of the country’s most sensitive governance matters.
In addition to his work within government institutions, Zakariye has been actively involved in engaging with the Somali diaspora. He has served as one of the leaders of the Global Somali Diaspora initiative, which focuses on connecting Somalis living abroad with development efforts at home. Through such initiatives, the government has sought to encourage skilled professionals and investors in the diaspora to contribute to Somalia’s reconstruction and economic growth.
Officials believe Zakariye’s experience both inside government and within diaspora networks will help strengthen coordination between government institutions and Somali communities abroad. His appointment is also seen as part of an effort by the administration to bring younger professionals into leadership positions within the state.
Zakariye replaces Mohamed Amin Sheikh Osman, who previously held the deputy director general position at the Presidential Palace. Osman was recently appointed as Somalia’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, a diplomatic role that reflects the importance of relations between the two countries.
This week, Osman officially began his new duties by submitting copies of his credentials to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The step formally marks the start of his work as Somalia’s ambassador in Riyadh, where he will represent Somalia’s diplomatic interests and work to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Saudi Arabia is an important partner for Somalia in areas such as trade, humanitarian support, and labor opportunities for Somali citizens working in the Gulf region. Somali diplomats in the kingdom often play a key role in maintaining these ties and addressing issues affecting Somali nationals living there.
The leadership change at Villa Somalia comes at a time when the federal government is continuing to push administrative reforms across various institutions. Authorities say the reforms are aimed at improving efficiency, accountability, and coordination within the government.
At the same time, Somalia is dealing with a complex political environment, including debates over constitutional reforms and preparations for future elections. Government officials argue that strengthening institutions and bringing new talent into leadership positions is essential for ensuring stability and improving governance.
The appointment of Zakariye Yusuf Hussein is therefore viewed not only as a routine administrative change but also as part of a wider effort to reshape government institutions and encourage greater youth involvement in national leadership.