On June 8, 2025, the Horn Center Dialogue, led by Executive Director Ambassador Ahmed Abdi Salaan Haji Aadan, along with regional officials, visited Dhaqankaaba, a local enterprise founded by Ubah Abdullahi Culusow in Bidhaan Dheere, Galgaduud. The visit aimed to formally acknowledge and support Ubah’s entrepreneurial achievements.
Ubah began Dhaqankaaba as a cultural initiative in early 2021, evolving into a full-fledged business by late 2023. The company produces organic oils—including castor, peanut, sunflower, and coconut—using locally grown plants. Faced with water scarcity, she’s experimenting with drought-resistant crops.
Despite initial doubt from her family, Ubah took control of the entire production chain—from farming to processing to distribution—empowering both rural and urban communities. She overcame significant challenges such as limited funding, lack of mentorship, and emotional strain by continuously adapting and persisting.
During the visit, Ubah appealed for support of Somali-made products, urged investment in grassroots ventures, and called for youth empowerment, rejection of tribalism, and discouragement of illegal migration. She envisions longer-term projects like water wells and irrigation systems to support rural livelihoods and pave the way for future young female entrepreneurs.
Read Full Report Here.