Mogadishu, Somalia – The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has entered into a new partnership with the Somali Civil Society Network (SONSA) aimed at deepening public awareness and community participation in the rollout of Somalia’s National ID system.
The Memorandum of Understanding, signed in Mogadishu, marks a major step toward ensuring that information about the national ID reaches every corner of the country. The agreement focuses on collaboration in public education, advocacy, and community engagement, with civil society groups expected to play a crucial role in bridging the gap between government institutions and citizens.
NIRA Director General Abdiweli Timacade and SONSA Chairman Osman Muhyaddin Moallim Shatah led the signing ceremony, underscoring the shared vision of making the national ID system inclusive, transparent, and trusted. The partnership is seen as a practical recognition that civil society organizations are essential in mobilizing communities, especially those in remote or underserved areas, to participate in the registration process.
For many Somalis, the National ID represents more than a document—it is a gateway to citizenship rights, access to services, and formal recognition in state systems. Through this partnership, NIRA hopes to reach populations who may otherwise remain unaware or hesitant to register due to misinformation or logistical challenges.
Community-driven outreach programs are expected to follow, focusing on raising awareness about the benefits of the National ID, clarifying the registration process, and ensuring that no one is left behind.
The signing signals a growing collaboration between government agencies and civil society in building accountable institutions and strengthening Somalia’s identity infrastructure—a critical step in state-building and inclusive governance.
