Lubumbashi, DRC – Somalia’s Ambassador to Tanzania and the East African Community, Ilyas Ali Hassan, arrived in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where he received a warm welcome from local officials and members of the Somali community.
According to a statement from the Somali Embassy in Tanzania, the visit forms part of Amb. Hassan’s broader mission to assess the living conditions and welfare of Somalis residing in the DRC. His trip underscores Somalia’s growing commitment to strengthening ties with its diaspora communities across Africa, many of whom have established themselves in trade and small business sectors in Congolese cities.
During his stop in the capital Kinshasa earlier this week, Amb. Hassan met with Somali residents to listen to their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. He expressed gratitude to the government of the DRC, local authorities, and the Somali diaspora leadership for fostering an environment of coexistence and mutual respect.
The envoy’s outreach comes amid renewed efforts by the Somali government to deepen regional engagement and ensure its citizens abroad are well supported. Amb. Hassan reaffirmed that Mogadishu views the Somali diaspora not only as vital partners in national development but also as key contributors to the country’s diplomatic presence across the continent.