The Somali federal government launched its fourth National Cyber Security Forum in Mogadishu, focusing on building trust and cyber resilience through security by design. The two-day event, organized by the National Communications Authority and Mogadishu University, brings together stakeholders to discuss cybersecurity governance, protecting digital infrastructure, and addressing emerging threats. This initiative aims to integrate security measures into digital systems from the outset.
Mogadishu University President Ibrahim Mohamed Mursal emphasized the importance of collaboration among government, academia, private sector, and society in addressing cybersecurity issues. He highlighted the university's new Department of Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence, which will play a crucial role in developing the skills and research needed to tackle emerging cybersecurity challenges.
The National Communications Authority's Director General, Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, showcased key cybersecurity achievements, including the launch of the Somali Computer Incident Response Team and capacity-building programs for government officials. These efforts provide a foundation for strengthening cybersecurity in Somalia, and the forum offers a platform to share knowledge and develop practical solutions.
The Somali Computer Incident Response Team, inaugurated on March 7, is Somalia's first national center dedicated to coordinating cyber incident prevention, detection, and response. It operates under the communications authority and is responsible for receiving incident reports, issuing alerts, and coordinating responses to threats affecting government institutions and critical infrastructure.
The communications authority completed its first cybersecurity certification program for government officials, training IT professionals from 21 public institutions in internationally recognized cybersecurity standards and practices. This program is part of Somalia's efforts to build a national cybersecurity framework as government services and other sectors increasingly rely on digital systems.
Communications and Technology Minister Mohamed Adan Mo'allin, who officially opened the forum, announced plans to establish a National Cybersecurity Academy. He expressed hope that the forum will produce practical outcomes benefiting the Somali people. The government has accelerated efforts to build a national cybersecurity framework, with the House of the People approving a cybersecurity law in January.
The National Cyber Security Forum has become an annual event, with previous editions bringing together public and private-sector institutions to discuss cyber threats, policy development, and protection of critical infrastructure. The forum's continuity demonstrates Somalia's commitment to enhancing its digital security and addressing the evolving cybersecurity landscape.
Key points
- The Somali government has launched a series of initiatives to strengthen cybersecurity, including the establishment of the Somali Computer Incident Response Team and a cybersecurity certification program for government officials.
- The National Cyber Security Forum aims to integrate security measures into digital systems from the outset, rather than introducing them after deployment.
- Somalia has approved a cybersecurity law establishing responsibilities for government agencies, critical infrastructure operators, and national incident reporting and response.
