The Future of Somalia’s Indigenous Traditional Skills is a discussion-based cultural heritage event organized by Hayaan Heritage in connection with the 2026 International Day of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. The event will explore the future of Somalia’s indigenous traditional skills, with particular attention to how traditional knowledge and skills are transmitted, practiced and sustained across generations.

The programme will include a short screening of a documentary documenting pottery practices in Buur Haybe, Southwest State of Somalia, which will serve as a starting point for the wider discussion. The film will provide a community-based example of the knowledge, skills and practices embodied in Somali traditional craftsmanship.

The main component of the event will be an open discussion bringing together cultural practitioners, knowledge holders, heritage professionals, researchers, young people and other stakeholders. The conversation will examine the current challenges facing indigenous traditional skills and explore opportunities for intergenerational transmission, documentation, education, innovation and sustainable practice.

The discussion will also consider the role of communities, cultural institutions, educators and young people in ensuring that traditional skills remain living practices rather than becoming disconnected from the communities that sustain them.

The event aims to raise awareness of Somalia’s living heritage, create dialogue between generations and encourage greater recognition and safeguarding of the knowledge and skills carried by traditional practitioners.

Programme

1. Welcome & Introduction — 10 min

Introduction to the International Day of the Intangible Cultural Heritage and the purpose of the discussion.

2. Setting the Scene: Somalia’s Living Heritage — 10 min

A short presentation introducing indigenous traditional skills in Somalia and why their transmission matters.

3. Short Documentary Screening: Buur Haybe Pottery — 25 min

A short excerpt/documentary showing Somali pottery practices and the knowledge associated with them.

4. Reflections on the Film — 10 min

A brief reflection from a practitioner/researcher.

5. Main Panel Discussion — 45–60 min


6. Audience Dialogue — 20–30 min

Questions and contributions from participants.

7. Closing Reflections — 5–10 min

Text as provided by the organiser(s).