Mogadishu, Somalia – The State Minister of Telecommunications and Technology has convened a high-level consultation with Somalia’s leading internet service providers (ISPs) to discuss the Horn of Africa Digital Integration Project (EA-RDIP), a regional initiative aimed at boosting digital connectivity and economic integration across East Africa.
The meeting centered on ways to strengthen Somalia’s internet infrastructure, expand access to affordable and reliable broadband, and enhance the country’s participation in the regional digital economy.
The State Minister highlighted that the project is not only about modernizing Somalia’s telecommunications sector but also about bridging the digital divide and ensuring citizens and businesses have equal access to opportunities in the fast-growing digital marketplace.
Representatives of ISPs welcomed the consultation, emphasizing the importance of public-private collaboration in achieving the project’s goals. They raised issues such as high operational costs, cybersecurity risks, and the need for supportive regulatory frameworks to attract investment in the sector.
“The Horn of Africa Digital Integration Project is a game-changer for Somalia. It can create jobs, spur innovation, and make our economy more competitive in the region,” the State Minister noted, urging all stakeholders to align efforts toward a connected and digitally resilient Somalia.
The EA-RDIP, supported by international development partners, seeks to integrate infrastructure, harmonize digital policies, and promote cross-border connectivity among Horn of Africa states. For Somalia, this initiative is expected to improve internet speeds, reduce service costs, and enable digital services ranging from e-governance to financial technology and online education.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to establish a joint working group of government and ISP representatives to follow up on technical requirements, investment opportunities, and policy adjustments necessary for the project’s successful rollout.
