Although this was the first meeting of its kind in recent times, we have agreed on concrete follow up steps to be taken to achieve meaningful collaboration.
On the sidelines of #MWC25, I had a meeting with Mohamed Al Mannai, the Minister of Communications and Information Technology. Our discussion centred around exploring collaborations on the digital transformation fronts.
Honoured to have attended the Somalia Internet Governance Forum, ably presided over by @HamzaAbdiBarre. A milestone for Somalia's digital growth. Somali government recognizes the importance of internet governance & is committed to creating an enabling environment for the growth..
Remarks by H.E. Ahmed Osman Dirie, State Minister of Communications and Technology @MoCTSomalia Somalia Internet Governance Forum #SIGF2025, Jazeera Place Hotel, #Mogadishu
During his remarks, H.E. Ahmed Osman Dirie @DirieMP, highlighted the government’s continued legislative progress and digital infrastructure expansion.
“At the moment, the ministry is working on several important bills that have recently been submitted to the House of the People of the Federal Parliament of Somalia.
But in recent years we have made some significant progress. We have developed and submitted several key draft bills, many of which have now been passed by Parliament and signed by the President assent, including the Data Protection Act @DPASomalia & the National Communications Authority Act @SomaliaNCA.
Recently, the Cabinet Council submitted to the Parliament the Cybersecurity Bill, the Cybercrime Bill and yesterday, I personally delivered the draft proposal reading of the Electronic Transactions Bill before the House of the People @Golaha_shac_JFS .
Alongside these legal reforms we are working now permits us to expand internet connectivity across the country and link our fiber-optic network with neighboring landlocked countries such as Ethiopia, to ensure shared regional benefits and economic opportunities. We have also identified that South Sudan could be connected through a fiber route via the Kismayo coastline, a move that would not only strengthen regional connectivity but also generate economic benefits for Somalia.
Our efforts aim to ensure that internet access and capacity are not limited to government institutions alone, but are shared with private sector providers, including telecommunications and technology companies to promote digital inclusion across all societies.
In today’s world, the internet has become the foundation of communication influencing every aspect of our lives. It provides fast access to information, enables long-distance communication, and supports personal, educational, and professional activities. It is essential for everyday needs such as online banking, e-commerce, education, and accessing government services.”
#SIGF2025 #SomaliCivilSociety #CSOs #InternetGovernanceForum #DigitalRights #DigitalTransformation #Cybersecurity #SomaliSIG @OxfamIreland #ReCIPE
It's an honour and privilege to be awarded the African Minister of Finance at the #Africa Summit in London today by the African Leadership Magazine. I am indeed humbled. The real success and recognition belong to the #Somali people who are the main drivers of our economic reforms.
The State Minister of @MoCTSomalia chaired today’s EARDIP Steering Committee meeting, joined in person and virtually by DGs and senior officials. The PC shared project progress and the 2025 Work Plan. With major studies nearly complete, full implementation is approaching.
H.E.@DirieMP, State Minister @MoCTSomalia, participated in the 25th Global Digital Summit in Washington, DC. He joined key discussions on digital transformation,the Energy-Digital Nexus, and met with the World Bank to strengthen collaboration on digital integration in EastAfrica.
It was great to touch base with you on the sidelines of #MWC25, @ITUBDTDirector. Looking forward to strengthening the existing partnership between #Somalia and the @ITU.
Glad to meet H.E. @DirieMP, State Minister @MoCTSomalia, at #MWC25. We spoke about opportunities for collaboration to build digital capacity in Somalia. Working closely with Member States is key to ensuring universal and meaningful connectivity for all.
H.E. @DirieMP, State Minister of ministry of communications and technology met with Oman’s Minister of Transport & Communications to enhance ICT cooperation. Both sides agreed to establish a framework for long-term collaboration in the sector. 🇸🇴🇴🇲
State Minister of @MoCTSomalia H.E. Ahmed @DirieMP officially opened The @AIinSomalia 2024 & emphasized the transformative role of technology in shaping Somalia’s future and the critical importance of collaboration between government, academic, & industry to drive innovation.
“AI is a powerful tool for Somalia’s reconstruction, strengthening governance, enhancing services,and building a brighter future,”said H.E. Ahmed Osman @DirieMP at the #AISummitSomalia2024 Discussions focused on AI’s role in tackling societal challenges and advancing development.
Pleased to have met with @gabramosp of @UNESCO in Paris. Discussions catered on harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence.
with the help of UNESCO, Somalia will soon conduct a readiness assessment on AI- the start of a strategic partnership b/w @MoCTSomalia & UNESCO on AI.
As a responsible member state, #Somalia is committed to play an active role in all EAC initiatives including the region’s digital development and integration agenda.
The State Minister H.E @DirieMP has officially closed the two-day EAC Digital Transformation Strategy 202-2030 Country Validation Consultation in Mogadishu. A significant step forward in our regional collaboration to harness digital technology for development. @jumuiya#Digital
"We need to be careful when utilizing AI, we shouldn't be publicating practices from the global north, we should be utilizing #AI in a way that conforms to our context."
-H.E. Ahmed Osman Dirie, State Minister, Communication and Information Technology, Somalia
#EARFAI2024
As we celebrate 1st July, the 64th anniversary of the day Somalia attained self-rule as a unified country, I wish all Somalis a joyous celebration. May this day be filled with happiness, pride, and a renewed sense of unity.
As we celebrate 1st July, the 64th anniversary of the day Somalia attained self-rule as a unified country, I wish all Somalis a joyous celebration. May this day be filled with happiness, pride, and a renewed sense of unity.
Emphasised the need to approach AI strategically, taking Africa’s unique challenges into account rather than replicating practices from the global north.
Was great to partake in Eastern Africa Sub-Regional forum on Artificial Intelligence together with Eastern Africa ICT Ministers in Nairobi, Kenya
During the forum, I did participate in a Ministerial panel discussion on Harnessing AI for sustainable development in Eastern Africa.