Somali National University Launches National Artificial Intelligence Centre to Drive Digital Transformation

MOGADISHU – Somali National University (SNU) has officially launched the Somali National Artificial Intelligence Centre (SNAIC), a Centre of Excellence established to advance artificial intelligence research, education, innovation and capacity building in Somalia. The launch ceremony brought together representatives from government institutions, universities, research institutions, academia, technology and artificial intelligence experts, and other stakeholders.

The new centre is poised to become the university’s flagship hub for AI development, supporting the creation of locally driven solutions that contribute to national progress and digital transformation. Its establishment comes as Somalia seeks to position itself as a key innovator in AI adoption within the East African Community, with officials having presented a comprehensive plan for artificial intelligence integration at regional summits.

A Hub for Research, Education and Innovation

SNAIC will focus on advancing research, enhancing the quality of Somali expertise, supporting innovation, contributing to AI policy and governance frameworks, and strengthening partnerships that promote responsible AI development. The centre’s activities will span critical research areas including machine learning, natural language processing, data science, computer vision, robotics, and AI ethics, while promoting the application of these technologies in education, healthcare, agriculture, administration and economic growth.

The centre will also offer academic programmes, professional training, research initiatives and innovation activities designed to build the knowledge and skills of students, researchers and professionals, enabling them to benefit from AI and contribute to national development. This initiative aligns with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s vision of leveraging technology-driven sectors to anchor Somalia’s future economic development.

A Growing National Commitment to AI

The launch of SNAIC follows a series of high-level engagements signalling Somalia’s growing commitment to artificial intelligence. During a visit to Algeria in November 2025, President Mohamud toured the National School of Artificial Intelligence, where young researchers demonstrated tools and models designed to solve real-world challenges. Officials accompanying the president described the visit as a window into the technological path Somalia aims to follow, one grounded in youth talent and practical innovation.

Somalia has also been actively engaged in international AI governance discussions. At the Madrid Dialogue on counter-terrorism cooperation, the Presidential Special Envoy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism joined senior global diplomats to examine how AI influences contemporary asymmetric warfare. The discussions highlighted that for Somalia, addressing digital threats is not merely theoretical but an urgent national security priority.

Strengthening Academic and International Partnerships

The establishment of SNAIC builds on Somali National University’s broader efforts to expand its academic and technological partnerships. The university has significantly broadened its global academic connections through a high-level delegation visit to China, establishing formal agreements with HiSign Technology and the China-Africa Institute focused on collaborative research projects, expert exchange programmes, and improving the quality of higher education.

These partnerships aim to develop graduates prepared for the demands of the global digital economy. The university has also received international support for rebuilding its infrastructure, with Italy financing the reconstruction of the Gaheyr Campus.

AI’s Role in Somalia’s Digital Future

For Somalia, whose public institutions are rebuilding after decades of conflict, the potential of AI to support governance, education, agriculture, and security is immense. Somalia has been positioning itself as a key innovator in AI adoption within the East African Community, with the Somali delegation presenting a comprehensive plan for artificial intelligence adoption at regional summits.

The government has also been working to strengthen its digital infrastructure and cybersecurity frameworks. Minister of Telecommunications and Technology Mohamed Adam Mo’alim Ali has reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to data protection and cybersecurity legislation as key pillars of the country’s digital transformation strategy.

Way Forward

The Somali National Artificial Intelligence Centre represents a significant step in Somalia’s journey toward technological advancement and digital transformation. By establishing a dedicated hub for AI research, education and innovation, Somali National University is laying the foundation for a new generation of Somali experts equipped to harness the power of artificial intelligence for national development.

As the centre begins its operations, it is expected to play a crucial role in shaping Somalia’s AI ecosystem, fostering innovation, and ensuring that the country can compete in emerging scientific and technological arenas. The success of SNAIC will depend on sustained investment, strong partnerships, and a commitment to developing local talent capable of driving Somalia’s digital future.