• Somalia launches certified cybersecurity training for public ICT professionals to strengthen national data protection.

• Authorities step up reforms following the creation of SOMCIRT and new cyber laws in 2025–2026.

• International partnerships with the World Bank, Turkey, and others support capacity building efforts.

The Somali government announced on March 29 the launch of a specialized cybersecurity training program targeting ICT professionals across public institutions. The program delivers internationally recognized certifications and aims to strengthen participants’ ability to protect national data and respond to rising cyber threats.

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Mogadishu, Somalia – March 29, 2026 — The Director General of… pic.twitter.com/XQSltPWK9x

— NCA Somalia (@SomaliaNCA) March 29, 2026

Comprehensive and International Modules

The National Communications Authority (NCA) supervises the program in partnership with the World Bank Group. The curriculum covers modules ranging from foundational to advanced cybersecurity topics. The program includes system protection, incident management and response, cloud data security, and the development and auditing of organizational security policies.

Moreover, the training addresses risk management practices and information security governance. Organizers will deliver courses in Mogadishu through online platforms and in Nairobi, Kenya, between March 28 and May 8.

Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, Director General of the NCA, said, “This training program forms part of the Authority’s efforts to strengthen the protection of Somalia’s digital infrastructure, secure national data, and respond to the growing risks associated with cyber threats. It will also enhance the capacity of public staff to effectively protect national digital systems and services.”

This initiative comes as Somali authorities intensify efforts to secure national cyberspace against increasing threats. On March 7, the country launched SOMCIRT, as mandated by the Cybersecurity Law approved by Parliament in January 2026. In addition, authorities approved a cybercrime bill in August 2025.

Furthermore, the Data Protection Law, which entered into force in March 2023, led to the creation of the Data Protection Agency (DPA), responsible for enforcement.

Strengthening Legal Framework and International Cooperation

At the same time, Somalia is expanding international cooperation to access external expertise. On February 10, the government signed a memorandum of understanding with Turkey covering several digital sectors, including cybersecurity. Somalia has also strengthened ties with Malaysia, Nigeria, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), among other partners.

Moreover, the Horn of Africa nation is a signatory to the Malabo Convention, which aims to strengthen Africa’s legal framework on cybersecurity, data protection, and cybercrime.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) considers cybersecurity a prerequisite for countries seeking to fully leverage ICT opportunities. In its “Global Cybersecurity Index 2024,” the ITU ranked Somalia in Tier 4 out of 5. The country scored 37.39 out of 100 and still needs to strengthen technical measures, legal frameworks, and capacity development.

This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum